Supplementing Sound: Combatting Age-Related Hearing Loss
Age-related hearing loss may be linked to a decrease in cholesterol in the inner ear, specifically affecting the outer hair cells (OHCs) responsible for amplifying sounds. Researchers found that phytosterol supplements, which are similar to cholesterol, can compensate for the lost cholesterol and prevent sensory dysfunction in mice. If applicable to humans, over-the-counter phytosterol supplements could potentially offer a solution to combat age-related hearing loss. Further research is needed to determine the effects on older mouse models and humans.