THE ROLE OF VITAMINS B12, B6 AND FOLATE IN THE PATHOGENESIS OF SENSORINEURAL HEARING LOSS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.11603/mcch.2410-681X.2026.i1.15956Keywords:
nutrients; homocysteine; methionine cycle; folate cycle; presbycusis; neurodegeneration; oxidative stress.Abstract
Introduction. Hearing impairment represents one of the leading causes of disability worldwide and is characterized by a steadily increasing prevalence, underscoring the urgency of developing effective preventive and therapeutic strategies. One of the most common forms of persistent hearing loss is sensorineural hearing loss, the pathogenesis of which is multifactorial and involves genetic, vascular, metabolic, and exogenous factors. Within the framework of the contemporary pathophysiological paradigm, particular attention is being paid to the role of nutritional determinants – specifically B-group vitamins – in modulating the risk of auditory dysfunction. The aim of the study is to synthesize current scientific evidence regarding the role of vitamins B6, B9 (folic acid), and B12 in the pathogenesis of sensorineural hearing loss. Research Methods. An analytical review of publications from 2016 to 2025 was conducted using the MEDLINE/ PubMed database. Results and Discussion. The summarized evidence indicates that vitamins B6, B9, and B12 serve as key cofactors in one-carbon metabolism and as regulators of the methionine cycle, upon the efficiency of which homocysteine degradation depends. Their deficiency is associated with hyperhomocysteinemia, activation of oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, and microangiopathic alterations within the structures of the inner ear. Experimental studies demonstrate a link between disruption of the folate cycle and cochlear damage, whereas clinical investigations suggest the potential to slow the progression of age-related and other forms of sensorineural hearing loss through correction of the corresponding vitamin deficiencies. Conclusions. The obtained findings support the rationale for considering vitamins B6, B9, and B12 as potentially modifiable risk factors for sensorineural hearing loss.
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Accepted 2026-03-06
Published 2026-04-28
