Premium
Localization of Laminin Isoforms in the Guinea Pig Cochlea
Author(s) -
Weinberger Debra G.,
ten Cate WouterJan,
Lautermann Juergen,
Baethmann Martina
Publication year - 1999
Publication title -
the laryngoscope
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.181
H-Index - 148
eISSN - 1531-4995
pISSN - 0023-852X
DOI - 10.1097/00005537-199912000-00020
Subject(s) - laminin , spiral ligament , cochlea , guinea pig , inner ear , basement membrane , glycoprotein , gene isoform , immunohistochemistry , pathology , biology , staining , anatomy , microbiology and biotechnology , extracellular matrix , medicine , endocrinology , organ of corti , biochemistry , gene
Abstract Objective: To elucidate the pathogenesis of inner ear disorders by examining the distribution of a major component of basement membranes, the glycoprotein laminin. Study Design: Animal model. Methods: Adult guinea pig cochleae were fixed with methanol and sectioned. Sections were examined for the presence of laminins α2, α5, β1, and γ1 using immunohistochemistry. Results: Laminins α2, α5, and β1 were not detected. Laminin γ1 was found in the limbus, spiral ligament, and stria vascularis. Conclusions: Anti‐laminin antibodies have been found in patients with inner ear disorders. Laminin γ1 demonstrates specific staining at multiple sites in the guinea pig cochlea. These structures may be targets of antibodies causing sensorineural hearing loss.