Effects of Spirulina on GABA Receptor Gene Expression in Salicylate-Induced Tinnitus.

OBJECTIVES

The function of γ-amino butyric acid receptor (GR) was related with tinnitus. But, the effects of water extract (SP) on the mRNA expression of in mice with tinnitus were still unclear.

METHOD

Eighteen SAMP8 mice were divided into the control group (intraperitoneal injection of saline, once per day), the tinnitus group (intraperitoneal injection of salicylate, 300 mg/kg body weight once per day), and the spirulina group [intraperitoneal injection of salicylate, 300 mg/kg body weight and oral SP supplementation (1000 mg/kg body weight) once per day]. Effects of SP on the mRNA expression of in the cochlea and brain of mice were studied for 4 days.

RESULTS

Compared to the control group, the tinnitus group had significantly higher tinnitus scores and lower mRNA expression of gene in the cochlear, brainstem, hippocampus and parahippocampus, temporal lobes, and the frontal lobes. On the other hand, the spirulina group had significantly lower tinnitus scores and higher gene expression than the tinnitus group in all tested areas.

CONCLUSION

SP could reduce salicylate-induced tinnitus possibly increasing the salicylate-induced down-regulation of gene expression.