[Effect of N-acetylcysteine in protecting from simultaneous noise and carbon monoxide induced hair cell loss]

ABSTRACT

N-acetylcysteine, a glutathione precursor and reactive oxygen species scavenger, is reported to be effective in reducing noise-induced hearing loss. Many workers in industry are exposed simultaneously to noise and chemical pollutants such as carbon monoxide. We investigated effectiveness of N-acetylcysteine in protecting the cochlea from simultaneous noise and carbon monoxide damages. Twelve rabbits were exposed simultaneously to 100 dB sound pressure level of broad band noise and carbon monoxide 8 hours a day for 5 days. One hour before exposure, experimental group received 325 mg/kg of N-acetylcysteine while normal saline was administered for the control group. The protective effect of N-acetylcysteine was evaluated 3 weeks after exposure by histological assessment of the hair cells. Simultaneous exposure to noise and carbon monoxide resulted in a considerable damage to the outer hair cells; however, the inner hair cells and the pillar cells remained intact. Use of N-acdetylcysteine in the experimental group significantly reduced the extent of outer hair cell loss. N-acetylcysteine attenuates simultaneous noise and carbon monoxide induced hair cell damage in rabbits