Gene Mutation Linked to Old Age Hearing Loss Identified -
Over a 9 year study researchers were able to identify the first genetic biomarker for presbycusis. The genetic mutation carried by those who ultimately suffer from age-related hearin
g loss is linked to speech processing abilities in older people.
Interestingly, the gene mutation played out differently in women than in men. While the variation had a negative impact for men, it did the opposite for women, who actually had better than average hearing in their elder years. That discovery supports a 2006 finding by another reaserch group that the hormone aldosterone plays a role in hearing capabilities. More info here:
http://bit.ly/U79Vxp Journal Article:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.heares.2012.08.016Image: SEM of stereocilia (mechanosensing hair cells) from human chochlea (inner ear). Wellcome Photo Library