Selective and transient expression of a native chondroitin sulfate epitope in Deiters’ cells, pillar cells, and the developing tectorial membrane

Abstract

The tectorial membrane (TM) is an acellular connective tissue overlying the sensory hair cells of the organ of Corti. Association of the tectorial membrane with the stereocilia of the sensory hair cells is necessary for proper auditory function. During development, the mature tectorial membrane is thought to arise by fusion of a “major” and “minor” tectorial membrane (Lim, Hear Res 1986;22:117–146). Several proteins and glycoconjugates have been detected in the developing TM; however, the specific molecules which mediate fusion of the two components of the TM have not been identified. In the present study, a novel monoclonal antibody (TC2) that recognizes a native epitope on glycosaminoglycans enriched in chondroitin-4-sulfate revealed a transient and restricted expression in the developing gerbil TM. The localization patterns suggest that Deiters’ and pillar cells secrete a TC2-positive matrix prior to birth that later becomes incorporated into the marginal band and superior layer (cover net) of the TM. The developmental timecourse and patterns of TC2 reactivity suggest that this molecule may play a critical role in the fusion of the minor TM with the major TM.

Publisher

Wiley-Liss

Publication Date

9-1-1999

Publication Title

Anatomical Record

Department

Neuroscience

Document Type

Article

Keywords

Cochlea, Organ of Corti, Gerbil, Glycosaminoglycan, Chondroitin-4-sulfate

Language

English

Format

text

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