Advance and Application of Single-cell Transcriptomics in Auditory Research

Abstract

Hearing loss and deafness, as a worldwide disability disease, have been troubling human beings. However, the auditory organ of the inner ear is highly heterogeneous and has a very limited number of cells, which are largely uncharacterized in depth. Recently, with the development and utilization of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), researchers have been able to unveil the complex and sophisticated biological mechanisms of various types of cells in the auditory organ at the single-cell level and address the challenges of cellular heterogeneity that are not resolved through by conventional bulk RNA sequencing (bulk RNA-seq). Herein, we reviewed the application of scRNA-seq technology in auditory research, with the aim of providing a reference for the development of auditory organs, the pathogenesis of hearing loss, and regenerative therapy. Prospects about spatial transcriptomic scRNA-seq, single-cell based genome, and Live-seq technology will also be discussed.

Keywords: Auditory sensory epithelium; Cochlear; Inner ear; Single-cell RNA sequencing; Spiral ganglion neuron.

Fig. 1

The summary of publications of scRNA-seq in auditory research. A A stack histogram shows that between 2014 and July 29, 2023, the number of publications related to single-cell transcriptomics in the field of auditory research has increased, and the number has increased dramatically in the last two years. B Number of publications by study types."scRNA-seq" indicates the original studies that generate scRNA-seq data."re-analysis refers to the re-analysis studies of the published scRNA-seg datasets."database" means the online database dedicated to the study of the inner ear. C Number of publications by type of source of sample species. D Number of publications by sequencing method types.

Fig. 2

Basic process of scRNA-seq.

Fig. 3

Hearing loss and deafness have been the subject of global concern as they are prevalent disabilities. Through the utilization of scRNA-seq, many aspects in the field of auditory research have been significantly advanced, including the heterogeneity, development, aging, and deafness-related diseases of auditory organ cells, as well as the regeneration and treatment of hair cells.