Genetically modified pigs: Emerging animal models for hereditary hearing loss

Zool Res. 2024 Mar 18;45(2):284-291. doi: 10.24272/j.issn.2095-8137.2023.231.

Abstract

Hereditary hearing loss (HHL), a genetic disorder that impairs auditory function, significantly affects quality of life and incurs substantial economic losses for society. To investigate the underlying causes of HHL and evaluate therapeutic outcomes, appropriate animal models are necessary. Pigs have been extensively used as valuable large animal models in biomedical research. In this review, we highlight the advantages of pig models in terms of ear anatomy, inner ear morphology, and electrophysiological characteristics, as well as recent advancements in the development of distinct genetically modified porcine models of hearing loss. Additionally, we discuss the prospects, challenges, and recommendations regarding the use pig models in HHL research. Overall, this review provides insights and perspectives for future studies on HHL using porcine models.

遗传性听力损失是一种影响听觉功能的遗传性疾病,严重影响人类生活质量,并导致社会经济损失。为了研究其病因并评估治疗效果,亟需适当的动物模型。猪作为有价值的大动物模型,已经在生物医学研究中获得广泛使用。在该综述中,我们强调了猪模型在耳部解剖学、内耳形态学和电生理特性方面的优势,以及近期在开发各种遗传修饰的听力损失猪模型方面的进展。此外,我们还讨论了在遗传性听力损失研究中使用猪模型的前景、挑战和建议。总之,该综述为未来使用猪模型进行遗传性听力损失研究提供了洞察和观点。.

Keywords: Animal models; Genetic modification; Hereditary hearing loss; Inner ear; Pigs.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Ear, Inner*
  • Hearing Loss* / genetics
  • Hearing Loss* / therapy
  • Hearing Loss* / veterinary
  • Hearing Loss, Sensorineural* / genetics
  • Hearing Loss, Sensorineural* / veterinary
  • Models, Animal
  • Quality of Life
  • Swine / genetics
  • Swine Diseases*

Grants and funding

This work was supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China (2021YFA0805902, 2022YFF0710703), National Natural Science Foundation of China (32201257), Science and Technology Innovation Project of Xiongan New Area (2022XAGG0121), and Young Elite Scientists Sponsorship Program by the China Association for Science and Technology (2019QNRC001)