Localization of laminin isoforms in the guinea pig cochlea

Objective: To elucidate the pathogenesis of inner ear disorders by examinin g the distribution of a major component of basement membranes, the glycopro tein laminin. Study Design: Animal model. Methods: Adult guinea pig cochlea e were fixed with methanol and sectioned, Sections were examined for the pr esence of laminins alpha 2, alpha 5, beta 1, and gamma 1 using immunohistoc hemistry. Results: Laminins alpha 2, alpha 5, and beta 1 were not detected. Laminin gamma 1 was found in the limbus, spiral ligament, and stria vascul aris. Conclusions: Anti-laminin antibodies have been found in patients with inner ear disorders. Laminin gamma 1 demonstrates specific staining at mul tiple sites in the guinea pig cochlea. These structures may be targets of a ntibodies causing sensorineural hearing loss.