Glial-specific deletion of Med12 results in rapid hearing loss via degradation of the stria vascularis

Teng Wei Huang, Amrita A. Iyer, Jeanne M. Manalo, Junsung Woo, Navish A. Bosquez Huerta, Melissa M. McGovern, Heinrich Schrewe, Fredrick A. Pereira, Andrew K. Groves, Kevin K. Ohlemiller, Benjamin Deneen

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

Mediator protein complex subunit 12 (Med12) is a core component of the basal transcriptional apparatus and plays a critical role in the development of many tissues. Mutations in Med12 are associated with X-linked intellectual disability syndromes and hearing loss; however, its role in nervous system function remains undefined. Here, we show that temporal conditional deletion of Med12 in astrocytes in the adult CNS results in region-specific alterations in astrocyte morphology. Surprisingly, behavioral studies revealed rapid hearing loss after adult deletion of Med12 that was confirmed by a complete abrogation of auditory brainstem responses. Cellular analysis of the cochlea revealed degeneration of the stria vascularis, in conjunction with disorganization of basal cells adjacent to the spiral ligament and downregulation of key cell adhesion proteins. Physiologic analysis revealed early changes in endocochlear potential, consistent with strial-specific defects. Together, our studies reveal that Med12 regulates auditory function in the adult by preserving the structural integrity of the stria vascularis.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)7171-7181
Number of pages11
JournalJournal of Neuroscience
Volume41
Issue number34
DOIs
StatePublished - Aug 25 2021

Keywords

  • Astrocyte
  • Hearing loss
  • Mediator complex
  • Stria vascularis

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