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A newly identified surface coat on cochlear hair cells
Hearing Research
|January 1, 1987
Summary
A new method using Alcian blue fixation better preserves cochlear hair cell surface coats. This enhanced visualization of glycoconjugates may reveal their role in hearing function and damage.
Area of Science:
- Otoacoustic Emissions
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Routine electron microscopy poorly preserves the glycocalyx on cochlear hair cells.
- Cationic dyes like Alcian blue improve glycoconjugate preservation in other tissues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate Alcian blue fixation for preserving cochlear hair cell surface coats.
- To characterize the distribution of glycoconjugates in the cochlea.
Main Methods:
- Cochleas were fixed with glutaraldehyde containing Alcian blue.
- Electron microscopy was used to examine the preserved structures.
Main Results:
- An extensive (90 nm thick) Alcian blue-positive surface coat was observed on hair cells.
- Alcian blue positive material was also found in the tectorial and basilar membranes, spiral ligament, and acellular bands.
Conclusions:
- Alcian blue fixation effectively visualizes cochlear glycoconjugates.
- These glycoconjugates may link the tectorial membrane to the organ of Corti and influence stereocilia fusion.