Ginkgolide B from Traditional Chinese Medicine for Hereditary Hearing Loss via Platelet-Activating Factor Receptor Modulation

Ginkgolide B, a diterpene lactone from Ginkgo biloba, acts as a selective antagonist of platelet-activating factor receptor (PAFR) and inhibits inflammatory cascades in the inner ear. The compound blocks PAFR-mediated activation of NF-κB and reduces production of inflammatory mediators like TNF-α and IL-1β that damage cochlear hair cells. Additionally, ginkgolide B enhances microcirculation in the stria vascularis through modulation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase.