Abstract
Structural relationships between intermediate cells and capillaries in the stria vascularis of gerbils were examined by confocal laser microscopy and electron microscopy. Immunostaining for an inward rectifier K+ channel (Kir4.1), which was localized to intermediate cells, was used to determine the three-dimensional distribution of intermediate cells. These cells constituted a honeycomb-like network, and their dendritic processes surrounded not only capillaries but also the basolateral surface of epithelial marginal cells. On the basis of the above finding and the large K+ conductance in intermediate cells, we propose that the network composed of intermediate cells has a spatial K+ buffering function. Transmission electron microscopy revealed the absence of the basal lamina in some regions and the presence of a gap junction-like membrane association between intermediate cells and pericytes and/or endothelial cells. This result supported our previous finding that intermediate cells were dye-coupled with pericytes and endothelial cells. The presence of gap junctions between intermediate cells and pericytes and/or endothelial cells suggests that endothelial cells and pericytes may play roles other than forming a structural route for blood circulation.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 103-112 |
Number of pages | 10 |
Journal | Hearing Research |
Volume | 155 |
Issue number | 1-2 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2001 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Confocal laser microscopy
- Electron microscopy
- Gap junction
- K channel
- Melanocyte
- Spatial K buffering
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Sensory Systems