LOCALIZATION OF F-ACTIN AND FODRIN ALONG THE ORGAN OF CORTI IN THE CHINCHILLA

The distribution of the two cytoskeletal proteins, filamentous actin ( F-actin) and fodrin, was investigated along the organ of Corti of the chinchilla using laser scanning confocal fluorescence microscopy. High intensity labeling of F-actin was seen in outer and inner hair cells, including the stereocilia. High intensity staining was also seen for fodrin in outer and inner hair cells, but not in their stereocilia. St aining intensity of both proteins along the lateral cell wall of the o uter hair cells appeared to be greater in the middle and basal cochlea r turns than in the apical turn. Pillars and Deiters cells also exhibi ted high intensity labeling of F-actin. The lack of significant differ ences in the distribution of fodrin between outer and inner hair cells makes the role of this protein in the active processes still unclear. Comparison of the distribution of F-actin and fodrin in the chinchill a with those reported in the guinea pigs suggest possible species diff erences.