Complex distribution patterns of voltage-gated calcium channel α-subunits in the spiral ganglion.

ABSTRACT: As with other elements of the peripheral auditory system, spiral ganglion neurons display specializations that vary as a function of location along the tonotopic axis. Previous work has shown that voltage-gated K(+) channels and synaptic proteins show graded changes in their density that confers rapid responsiveness to neurons in the high frequency, basal region of the cochlea and slower, more maintained responsiveness to neurons in the low frequency, apical region of the cochlea. In order to understand how voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) may contribute to these diverse phenotypes, we identified the VGCC α-subunits expressed in the ganglion, investigated aspects of Ca(2+)-dependent neuronal firing patterns, and mapped the intracellular and intercellular distributions of seven VGCC α

SUBMITTER: Chen WC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3223918 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature