Natriuretic peptides modulate inner ear function

Natriuretic peptides dramatically increase urine volume and sodium content by influencing renal transport mechanisms for sodium, potassium and chloride. Many of the identical transporters provide vital contributions to fluid and electrolyte balance in the cochlea of the inner ear. Recent results from experiments using knockout mouse models support the hypothesis that the natriuretic peptide pathway has a critical role in hearing. In this review, the components of the natriuretic peptide system known to be present in the inner ear and their ability to regulate the function of the cochlea will be detailed.