[Stereociliary cross-links on the guinea pig utricle hair cells]

Abstract

Objective: To observe the cross-links between stereocilia on guinea pig utricle hair cells.

Method: Twenty-four utricles from pigmented guinea pigs were examined using high resolution scanning (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM).

Result: An extensive network of cross-links occurs between stereocilia of utricle hair cells. These links fall into three categories. Upward-pointing links: from the tips of shorter stereocilia to the side of the adjacent taller stereocilia; Side-to-side links: between stereocilia of the same row; Row-to-row links: between adjacent rows.

Conclusion: The existence of the stereociliary cross-links binds the hair bundles together and may be associated with the transduction process.