Abstract
The organ of Corti contains two different types of auditory receptors; the inner (IHCs) and outer (OHCs) hair cells. This dualism is further represented in their innervation, IHCs being innervated by type I neurons, and OHCs by type II neurons (in man, named small ganglion cells). Two efferent systems are also present. Here, we have analyzed the expression of the 57-kDa neuron-specific intermediate filament protein peripherin (PP) in human cochlea. In the human organ of Corti, PP seems to be specifically expressed in OHC afferents. Small or type II spiral ganglion cell bodies also intensely express PP. Thus, PP can be used as a marker for the characterization of the innervation of the OHC system in man.
Publication types
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
MeSH terms
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Adult
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Cochlea / innervation
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Cochlea / metabolism*
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Fluorescent Antibody Technique
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Hair Cells, Auditory, Outer / metabolism
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Humans
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Immunohistochemistry
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Intermediate Filament Proteins / genetics
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Intermediate Filament Proteins / metabolism*
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Membrane Glycoproteins / genetics
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Membrane Glycoproteins / metabolism*
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Nerve Tissue Proteins / genetics
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Nerve Tissue Proteins / metabolism*
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Neurofilament Proteins / biosynthesis
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Neurofilament Proteins / genetics
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Neurofilament Proteins / metabolism
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Organ of Corti / metabolism*
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Peripherins
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Spiral Ganglion / metabolism*
Substances
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Intermediate Filament Proteins
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Membrane Glycoproteins
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Nerve Tissue Proteins
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Neurofilament Proteins
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PRPH protein, human
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Peripherins
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neurofilament protein M