Expression of canonical transient receptor potential channel (TRPC) 1–7 in the mouse inner ear

Abstract

Conclusion: It is suggested that TRPCs play a functional role in the sensory cell transduction system in the inner ear. Objective: To study expression of TRPC 1–7 in the mouse inner ear. Materials and methods: The localization of TRPC 1–7 in the inner ear of CBA/J mice was investigated by immunohistochemistry. Results: TRPC immunoreactivity was observed generally in the inner ear, e.g. in the lateral wall of the cochlea, organ of Corti, spiral ganglion, vestibular end organs and vestibular ganglion. The immunofluorescent reaction to TRPC 3, 4, 5, and 7 in the stria vascularis was more intense than in the spiral prominence or spiral ligament. In the organ of Corti, TRPC immunoreactivity was observed in the outer hair cells (OHCs), inner hair cells (IHCs) and some supporting cells. TRPC 1–7 were all present in the ganglion cell body, TRPC 1 and 3 showing intense fluorescence, TRPC 2 and 7 moderate fluorescence and TRPC 4, 5 and 6 weak staining in ganglion fibres. In the vestibular end organs, vestibular hair cells (VHCs) showed immunoreactivity to all TRPCs. Nerve fibres in the subepithelial tissue were stained by TRPC 1, 3, 5, 6 and 7. Immunofluorescence to TRPC 1, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 was observed in the dark cells. In the vestibular ganglion, TRPC 1–7 were all present in the ganglion cell body. TRPC 1–4 and 7 elicited immunofluorescence in ganglion fibres.

• TRPC
• inner ear
• mouse
• immunohistochemistry