Glycogen Content in the Outer Hair Cells of Kangaroo Rat (D. Spectabilis) Cochlea Prior to and Following Auditory Stimulation

Abstract

Glycogen content in the organ of Corti of the kangaroo rat, D. spectabilis, is evaluated prior to and following auditory stimulation. PAS positive material is prominent in the outer hair cells, tectorial and basilar membranes, bone, and spiral ganglia. PAS positivity in the outer hair cells is due exclusively to glycogen. Short-term, high intensity stimulation of the kangaroo rats resulted in glycogen diminution in the outer hair cells, accompanied by damage to the organ of Corti in the upper half of the basal turn at frequencies of 1 950 and 3 000 Hz. At 3 000 Hz, the degree of damage increases as the intensity of the stimulus is raised. Long-term exposures at moderately high intensities also show the kangaroo rat to be particularly sensitive to frequencies of 1 950 and 3 000 Hz in the basal and second turns of the cochlea. Glycogen content is diminished, however no cytological damage is apparent.