Review Article

The Autoimmune Hypothesis in Meniere’s Disease: Evidence, Mechanisms, and Future Perspectives

Vianka Vanessa Yanez Montalvo¹, Melanie Dayana Yanez Montalvo¹, Jubran Al Balushi², Ileana Patricia Crespin Henriquez³, Chinyere Pamugo⁴, Sandra Estefanía Mejía Ruiz⁵, Marcellina Nwosu⁶, Robert Edgardo Vargas Vizcaya⁷, Nune Azaryan Dermenjian⁸, Sandy Escobar⁹, Juan C Pantoja¹⁰ and Maria Isabel Gomez Coral¹¹*

¹Universidad de Guayaquil, Ecuador

²University College Dublin, Ireland

³Universidad Evangélica de El Salvador, El Salvador

⁴University of Texas Health Houston Behavioral Sciences Campus Harris County Psychiatric Center

⁵Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Cd México, México

⁶American University of Integrative Sciences and El Paso Pain Center

⁷Universidad Nacional Experimental Rómulo Gallegos, Venezuela

⁸Yerevan State Medical University, Armenia (Authored from USA)

⁹Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México

¹⁰Universidad del Norte, Colombia

¹¹Universidad del Valle de México, México

Submission: May 21, 2024; Published: June 03, 2024

*Corresponding author: Maria Isabel Gomez Coral, Universidad del Valle de México, México

How to cite this article: Vianka Vanessa Yanez Montalvo, Melanie Dayana Yanez Montalvo, Jubran Al Balushi, Ileana Patricia Crespin Henriquez, Chinyere Pamugo, Sandra Estefanía Mejía Ruiz, et al. The Autoimmune Hypothesis in Meniere’s Disease: Evidence, Mechanisms, and Future Perspectives. Glob J Oto, 2024; 26 (5): 556197. DOI: 10.19080/GJO.2024.26.556197

Abstract

Meniere’s disease (MD) is a chronic inner ear disorder characterized by episodic vertigo, fluctuating sensorineural hearing loss, tinnitus, and aural fullness, significantly impacting patients’ quality of life. The etiology of MD is complex and multifactorial, involving genetic, environmental, vascular, and immunological factors. Among the various hypotheses proposed to explain MD’s pathogenesis, the autoimmune hypothesis suggests that an aberrant immune response targets inner ear antigens, leading to the characteristic symptoms of MD. This review article aims to comprehensively analyze the autoimmune hypothesis in MD, focusing on evidence, mechanisms, and future perspectives. The evidence supporting the autoimmune hypothesis includes clinical observations of higher prevalence rates of autoimmune conditions among MD patients, epidemiological links to autoimmune disorders, and laboratory findings of specific autoantibodies and elevated inflammatory cytokines. Proposed immunological mechanisms involve autoantibodies targeting inner ear antigens, molecular mimicry, and immune complex deposition, leading to inflammation and tissue damage in the inner ear. Experimental models and in vitro studies have replicated these autoimmune responses, further validating the hypothesis. Despite compelling evidence, some studies present conflicting results, highlighting the need for further research. Future directions include refining experimental models, exploring specific immunological pathways, and conducting comprehensive clinical studies. Understanding the autoimmune mechanisms in MD could lead to novel therapeutic strategies focusing on immunomodulation, potentially improving outcomes for patients with this debilitating condition.

Keywords: Meniere’s disease; Autoimmunity; Immunological mechanisms; Autoimmune hypothesis; Inflammatory cytokines

Abbreviations: MD: Meniere’s Disease; SNP: Single Nucleotide Polymorphism; HSP70: Heat Shock Protein 70; IL-1β: Interleukin-1 beta; TNF-α: Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha; SNHL: Sensorineural Hearing Loss; HLA: Human Leukocyte Antigen; Hyp: PhexHyp; Gy: PhexGy; EHL: Endolymphatic Hydrops; DTNA: α-Dystrobrevin gene

Introduction

Meniere’s disease (MD) is a chronic disorder of the inner ear characterized by episodic vertigo, fluctuating sensorineural hearing loss, tinnitus, and aural fullness. The disease’s impact on patients’ quality of life is profound, often leading to severe physical and psychological distress. MD’s pathophysiology is primarily associated with endolymphatic hydrops, a condition marked by the distension of the endolymphatic compartments of the inner ear. However, the precise etiological mechanisms remain elusive due to the multifactorial nature of the disease. Genetic predispositions, environmental triggers, vascular abnormalities, and immunological responses have all been implicated in MD’s complex etiology. This multifactorial complexity necessitates a nuanced exploration of various hypotheses to understand MD’s underlying mechanisms fully [1-3].

The autoimmune hypothesis suggests that Meniere’s disease may result from an aberrant immune response wherein the body’s immune system mistakenly targets the inner ear. This hypothesis has garnered significant attention due to growing evidence of autoimmune activity in MD patients, such as elevated levels of specific autoantibodies and abnormal immune cell function. Moreover, the association of MD with other autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus, underscores a potential shared autoimmune mechanism. The relevance of this hypothesis lies in its potential to unveil novel therapeutic avenues, mainly through immunomodulatory treatments. By examining the current evidence, elucidating the underlying immunological mechanisms, and discussing future research directions, this review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the autoimmune aspects of MD, offering new perspectives on managing this debilitating condition [1-5].

Evidence for the Autoimmune Hypothesis

Meniere’s disease, a perplexing disorder characterized by recurrent vertigo, fluctuating hearing loss, and tinnitus, has long posed a challenge in terms of its etiology and management. Recent investigations have increasingly pointed towards an autoimmune component underlying the pathogenesis of Meniere’s disease. This hypothesis is substantiated by clinical, epidemiological, and laboratory evidence, which collectively illuminate a potential association between Meniere’s disease and autoimmune disorders [6]. Clinical Evidence: Numerous clinical studies have unveiled a higher prevalence of autoimmune conditions among individuals diagnosed with Meniere’s disease compared to the general population. This observation suggests a possible shared immunological vulnerability or predisposition.

Furthermore, clinical manifestations reminiscent of autoimmune pathology, such as inner ear inflammation and immune cell infiltration, have been identified in Meniere’s disease patients through histopathological analyses, bolstering the autoimmune hypothesis. Epidemiological Insights: Epidemiological investigations have contributed valuable insights into the relationship between Meniere’s disease and autoimmune disorders. Associations with conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and thyroid disorders have been consistently observed, providing compelling evidence for a potential autoimmune link. These findings underscore the importance of considering systemic immune dysfunction in evaluating and managing Meniere’s disease. Laboratory Findings: Further studies have supported the autoimmune hypothesis by uncovering immunological aberrations in Meniere’s disease patients. Elevated levels of autoantibodies and inflammatory cytokines have been detected in serum and cerebrospinal fluid samples, indicative of an activated immune response [6,7].

Additionally, the presence of immune complexes and evidence of inner ear inflammation in histological analyses underscore the potential involvement of autoimmune mechanisms in Meniere’s disease pathophysiology. Critical Analysis: While the evidence supporting the autoimmune hypothesis in Meniere’s disease is compelling, critical analysis is imperative to ascertain the strength and consistency of available data. Some studies have reported conflicting results or methodological limitations, warranting cautious interpretation. Future research endeavors should address these discrepancies and elucidate the specific immunological mechanisms driving Meniere’s disease, thereby paving the way for targeted therapeutic interventions [6-9]. The autoimmune hypothesis represents a promising framework for understanding the complex etiology of Meniere’s disease. Clinical, epidemiological, and laboratory evidence collectively support a potential role for autoimmune mechanisms in disease pathogenesis. However, ongoing research efforts are essential to elucidate the precise nature of this association further and translate these findings into improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for individuals affected by Meniere’s disease.

Proposed Mechanisms

The exploration of potential immunological mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of Meniere’s disease has unveiled several significant insights. One particularly noteworthy hypothesis involves the presence of autoantibodies that target inner ear antigens. Studies have identified elevated levels of antibodies against heat shock proteins (HSP70) and inner ear-specific proteins in the serum of MD patients. These autoantibodies may initiate an inflammatory response, leading to the disruption of the normal homeostasis within the inner ear. Additionally, cytokine profiling in MD patients has shown an upregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), which can contribute to inner ear inflammation and endolymphatic hydrops [10-12]. Autoimmune responses may trigger damage to the inner ear through several mechanisms. One proposed mechanism involves molecular mimicry, where viral or bacterial antigens share structural similarities with inner ear antigens, leading to a cross-reactive immune response. This phenomenon has been observed in other autoimmune diseases and could similarly play a role in MD. Moreover, the presence of immune complexes and complement activation within the endolymphatic sac has been documented, suggesting that the deposition of these immune components could lead to tissue damage and inflammation. Increased vascular permeability and cellular infiltration could exacerbate endolymphatic hydrops and damage sensory cells within the cochlea and vestibular apparatus [11-14].

The characteristic symptoms of Meniere’s disease, including vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus, and aural fullness, can be directly linked to these autoimmune mechanisms. The inflammation and immune-mediated damage within the cochlea can impair auditory function, leading to fluctuating hearing loss and tinnitus. Similarly, inflammation within the vestibular apparatus can disrupt normal vestibular function, resulting in the episodic vertigo characteristic of MD. By understanding these immunopathological mechanisms, researchers and clinicians can better target therapies to modulate the immune response, potentially improving outcomes for patients with Meniere’s disease [10-15].

Immunological Markers and Autoimmune Profiles

Recent research has delved into identifying immunological biomarkers linked to Meniere’s disease and autoimmune disorders, shedding light on their potential etiological connections. A study by Baschal, et al. [16] published in Otology & Neurotology, explored the role of immune-related genes in Meniere’s disease. They discovered significant associations between specific genetic variants and the susceptibility to Meniere’s disease and its pathogenesis, such as anti-heat shock protein 70 (HSP70), 68 KD protein, anti-alpha-actinin antibodies, and human leukocyte antigen (HLA) alleles, indicating a potential genetic predisposition [16]. Another study by Lopez-Escamez, et al. [17] in JAMA Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery investigated the prevalence of autoimmune comorbidities in patients with Meniere’s disease. Their findings revealed a higher prevalence of autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus, among individuals with Meniere’s disease compared to the general population, implicating autoimmune mechanisms in its development [17].

In a comprehensive review of an animal model, a casecontrolled experimental hypothesis was conducted by Requena, et al. [18] and it was deduced that hearing loss could be inherited. These authors confirmed that the muscular dystrophies in humans and mouse models showed the same result in dystrophindeficiency Meniere’s disease [18]. These recent studies underscore the growing recognition of the immunological component in Meniere’s disease pathophysiology, paving the way for a future of targeted therapeutic strategies. Understanding the immunological biomarkers associated with Meniere’s disease and autoimmune disorders factors the interpretation of their complex interactions and may lead to the development of innovative treatments. Evaluating the clinical utility of immunological biomarkers in diagnosing and managing Meniere’s disease offers promising insights into their potential role in clinical practice.

A study by Zhang, et al. [19] published in Frontiers in Immunology investigated the diagnostic value of serum inflammatory cytokines in Meniere’s disease, showing elevated levels of specific cytokines, such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), was associated with the severity of symptoms and disease progression, suggesting their potential utility as diagnostic markers [19]. Also, a review by Patel, et al. [20] and Zou et al. [21] in Current Allergy and Asthma Reports examined using immunomodulatory therapies to manage Meniere’s disease. They discussed emerging treatments targeting immune dysregulation in the body and inner ear, such as corticosteroids and biologic agents -anti-cancers, which have shown promise in alleviating symptoms and reducing disease activity in some patients [20,21]. These studies demonstrate the potential of immunological biomarkers and immunomodulatory therapies in Meniere’s disease management [20,21]. Incorporating these markers into clinical practice may offer more accurate diagnoses and personalized treatment approaches, significantly improving patient outcomes.

Experimental Models and Research Studies

Different animal models have been used to understand Meniere’s disease (MD), and guinea pigs were the first species used for this purpose [22]. Such studies have given valuable information on the pathophysiology of MD. Genetically modified mice, referred to as PhexHyp (Hyp) and PhexGy (Gy), have been associated with the development of endolymphatic hydrops (ELH), among other ear abnormalities. Such genes are responsible for phosphate homeostasis, inducing osteomalacia and rickets, which also cause sensorineural hearing loss, thickening of the petrous temporal bone, narrowing of the internal auditory canal, and ELH; such abnormalities have also been described in human studies [22,23].

A study performed in Drosophila (a genus of flies) showed an association between the α-Dystrobrevin gene (DTNA) and the proprioception and function of the Johnston’s organ (JO, the equivalent of the inner ear in the flies) [24]. α-Dystrobrevin deficit was associated with hearing loss, impaired climbing ability, and homeostatic imbalances in the JO. These results are essential and potentially extrapolatable because DTNA genes have been found in mammals, including humans [25]. Another murine study, this time on guinea pigs, unveiled the presence of immunoglobulin deposits in the endolymphatic sac, providing support for the autoimmune component of MD [26,27]. This damage could potentially be the initial step in the cascade leading to the development of ELH and MD. Similar findings were observed in human studies, where samples were taken from the endolymphatic sac, further emphasizing the potential role of autoimmunity in Meniere’s disease [28,29].

Challenges and Limitations

There has been a growing amount of research regarding the autoimmunity and immunological involvement in the pathogenesis of Meniere’s Disease. The structures of inner ear tissue can act as autoantigens and be targeted by the immune system, causing tissue damage [30]. The following criteria must be present for the disease to be considered autoimmune: direct evidence for an antibody or T-cell involvement, indirect evidence from experimental animal studies, clinical clues, and genetic clustering with other autoimmune diseases [31,32]. Kangasniemi et al. [33] analyzed a group of studies to derive evidence of autoimmunity in Meniere’s disease. The studies reviewed have been small and lacked evidence that could reveal autoimmune involvement based on the abovementioned criteria. It was poorly understood whether the antibodies can cause tissue damage in the inner ear. No autoantibodies specific to Meniere’s disease and its subgroups were identified. According to the literature, no significant evidence of autoimmunity in Meniere’s Disease has been identified. The field needs further research and investigation [33].

Other studies showed supporting evidence of the autoimmune mechanism of Meniere’s Disease. Although the mechanism is poorly understood, one-third of Meniere’s disease cases seem to have an autoimmune origin [34,35]. However, the antibodies to ubiquitous antigens commonly found in systemic autoimmune disease are not present in Meniere’s disease. Moreover, the signs and symptoms of autoimmune disorders are absent in these patients. No significant associations have been identified with connective tissue disorders. Many studies discuss the evidence that the immune response in Meniere’s disease is based on inner ear antigens. It remains debatable whether the antibodies to these antigens play a role in the pathogenesis of Meniere’s disease or whether they result from inflammation and tissue damage [36]. Despite the possibility of an autoimmune mechanism in Meniere’s disease, evidence remains controversial. Significant differences among studies may be explained by historical approaches in the understanding of the disease, as well as advancing intervention methods and clinical expertise. Ménière disease has multiple reported causes, and recent studies suggest associations with autoinflammatory processes and vestibular migraine. Future studies on biomarkers and imaging are warranted to improve understanding [37].

Clinical and Therapeutic Implications

The endolymphatic sac contains lymphocytes and immunoglobulins and resorbs endolymphatic fluid and, therefore, is the site of immune reaction in the inner ear [38]. There have been a series of hypotheses about the autoimmune nature of Meniere’s disease (MD). The autoimmune pathophysiology of MD was first stipulated in 1958 by Lehnhardt about abrupt bilateral hearing loss, which he attributed to the production of anti-cochlear antibodies in the inner ear [38-40]. There have also been reports of serum antibodies targeting internal ear antigens, circulating immune-complexes, and a documented favorable response to steroid therapy in MD patients [38-40]. Also, individuals diagnosed with MD exhibit specific characteristics associated with immune disorders, including a positive family history of MD, a hereditary preference, and a purported association with human leukocyte antigen loci (Cw7, A1, B8). Autoimmune MD accounts for about 6% and 16% of unilateral and bilateral hearing loss in MD patients [38,40].

The treatment approach to Meniere’s disease is individualized depending on the patient’s presenting symptoms, such as migraine, vertigo, hearing loss, autoimmune arthritis, and allergy [41,42]. Many treatments have been proposed for the management of MD, such as low sodium diet, low caffeine intake, high fluid intake, diuretics - especially thiazide diuretics, betahistine - a weak histamine H1 agonist and potent histamine H3 antagonist, migraine medications, oral and intratympanic injection of steroids such as dexamethasone, gene therapy, and endolymphatic sac surgery [4,5]. Other treatments include intratympanic gentamicin injection (this is not a favorable treatment because of its toxic effect on the labyrinth, leading to altered function of the vestibular and cochlear membrane), vestibular neurectomy, labyrinthectomy, and external pressure device (Menniett) [41,42].

As the pathophysiology of MD is still unclear, so is its treatment approach. However, since the discovery of the viral pathophysiology of MD, the use of antiviral to manage the balance issues associated with MD has led to the elimination of various past surgical procedures previously used in the management of MD. Likewise, identifying the autoimmune component of the pathophysiology of MD may open doors to research on the role of immunotherapy and immunosuppressive biologics in MD treatment. Immunosuppressive biologics such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) antagonist (etanercept) may be a new direction in MD management in the future, which, if promptly given with steroids, may reverse the inner ear damage [38].

Future Research Directions

Future research on Meniere’s disease could explore the subtlety of autoimmunity in the disorder’s pathogenesis. Studies exploring the molecular mechanisms underlying autoimmunity in Meniere’s, such as the involvement of specific autoantibodies or immune cell dysfunction, could provide crucial insights [21]. Additionally, investigations into the potential genetic predispositions to autoimmune processes in Meniere’s patients could shed light on personalized treatment approaches [16]. A study by Lopez-Escamez, et al. [17] in JAMA Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery suggests further exploration of autoimmune mechanisms in Meniere’s disease, paving the way for targeted therapeutic interventions [17]. To bridge the knowledge gaps in Meniere’s disease, it is imperative that future clinical and experimental studies adopt comprehensive designs that encompass several key areas. Firstly, prospective longitudinal studies are crucial to unravel the disease’s natural course and identify disease progression predictors. These studies can incorporate advanced imaging techniques to assess inner ear morphology and function over time, as the study in Frontiers in Neurology proposed [19].

Secondly, randomized controlled trials are essential to evaluate the efficacy of emerging treatments targeting specific pathophysiological mechanisms. For example, trials investigating the effectiveness of immunomodulatory therapies in reducing disease activity could provide valuable insights into the role of autoimmunity in Meniere’s disease progression [18]. Current Allergy and Asthma Reports discuss the potential of immunomodulation in Meniere’s disease management. Their retrospective review studies confirmed the positive result of 68 KD protein in populations with progressive sensorineural hearing loss [SNHL] [19]. Moreover, the triumph of future research endeavors on Meniere’s disease is contingent upon the synergy of collaborative multi-clinical studies. These studies play a pivotal role in amassing cohorts of patients, facilitating robust subgroup data collection, analyses, and validation of findings across diverse populations. By embracing these recommendations, we can collectively propel our understanding of Meniere’s disease and foster more effective management strategies.

Conclusion

Meniere’s disease (MD) remains a challenging disorder due to its complex and multifactorial nature. While its primary pathology is linked to endolymphatic hydrops, the exact etiological mechanisms involving genetic, environmental, vascular, and immunological factors remain elusive. The autoimmune hypothesis posits that an aberrant immune response against inner ear antigens could significantly affect MD’s pathogenesis. Evidence supporting this hypothesis includes the presence of specific autoantibodies, elevated inflammatory cytokines, and a higher prevalence of autoimmune comorbidities in MD patients. This hypothesis enhances our understanding of MD and opens potential therapeutic avenues focusing on immunomodulation.

Experimental models and in vitro studies have significantly advanced our knowledge of the immunopathological mechanisms underlying MD. Animal models, particularly rodents, have shown that immune responses targeting inner ear antigens can replicate the disease’s symptoms and pathology. In vitro studies further corroborate these findings, demonstrating the detrimental effects of autoantibodies and cytokines on inner ear cells. Despite the promising evidence, discrepancies and methodological limitations in existing studies highlight the need for further research. Future studies should aim to refine these models, explore specific immunological pathways, and validate findings across diverse patient cohorts. Through continued research, we can better elucidate the autoimmune mechanisms in MD and develop targeted, effective treatments to improve patient outcomes.

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