Review
Role of the supporting cells in the development and function of mammalian cochlea
Jiarui Chen, Jun Yang
Published 2017-07-16
Cite as Int J Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg, 2017, 41(4): 187-192. DOI: 10.3760/cma.j.issn.1673-4106.2017.04.001
Abstract
The sensory epithelia of the cochlea contains two major cell types, namely hair cells and supporting cells. Many studies aiming to investigate the underlying mechanisms of hearing loss focus on the hair cells and spiral ganglion neurons of the inner ear, while fewer studies on the supporting cell. Current understanding of the role of supporting cells has expanded from structural support to the development of cochlear homeostasis, regulation of the function of hair cells, and the development of synapses and the repair of hair cell damage. Here we review recent studies that highlight the critical roles supporting cells play in the development and function of mammalian cochlea.
Key words:
Cochlea; supporting cells; Hair Cells; spiral ganglion neuron; development
Contributor Information
Jiarui Chen
Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine on Ear and Nose Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Ear Institute, Shanghai 200092, China
Jun Yang
Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine on Ear and Nose Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Ear Institute, Shanghai 200092, China