Neuroprotective Complement Factors in Human Perilymph

Introduction Proteome-based analysis of human perilymph during cochlear implantation could provide new avenues for future inner ear biological therapies. The complement system relates to several soluble and membrane-bound factors that are regulating a variety of physiological and pathological processes. Their role in the inner ear, however, is not known yet.

Methods Human perilymph was collected during cochlear implantation from patients with severe hearing loss. Mass spectrometry was utilized to detect the individual protein profile. Individual proteins were identified by a shot-gun proteomics approach and further analysis using orbitrap mass spectrometry (Thermo Fisher Scientific) and MaxQuant software for identification.

Results Collection and analysis of 41 perilymph samples led to the identification of a plenitude of proteins. Several components of the complement system were among the identified proteins. Specifically, the neuroprotective complement factors C1q as well as C3a and C5a were present in human perilymph.

Conclusion The detection neuroprotective complement factors in human perilymph is the initial step towards the in depth investigation of a new calls of biomolecules in the inner ear. Among the effects mediated by the neuroprotective complement factors, phosphorylation of CREB and the stabilization of the cell membrane via the regulation of cholesterol- and lipid metabolism could be relevant for the cochlea. Whether this will result in novel inner ear therapeutics is currently under investigation.

Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft, Exzellenzcluster "Hearing for all"

Publication History

Article published online:
10 June 2020