Analysis of gene expression in the organ of Corti revealed by single-cell RT-PCR

Many genes encoding proteins which are expressed in the auditory periphery have been identified in the last years. With single-cell reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), the molecular analysis of gene expression can be done on the single-cell level. Furthermore a single-cell RT-PCR experiment can be combined with the electrophysiological characterization of an individual cell. The combination of these two methods will lead to a better understanding of how functional properties of neurons are controlled by the expression of complex proteins.