Localization of the P2Y₄ Receptor in the Guinea Pig Organ of Corti

Cochleae of guinea pigs were evaluated for the presence of the metabotropic receptor, P2Y₄. Evidence is presented that P2Y₄ protein is expressed in the guinea pig cochleae using Western blot analysis. A single protein band of 35 kDa was detected with P2Y₄ receptor-specific antibody. The cellular distribution of P2Y₄ purinoceptor protein was determined by immunohistochemistry of the whole organ of Corti. Immunoreactive staining for P2Y₄ was seen in most cells of the organ of Corti. Staining of Hensen's cells and Deiters' cells, especially the outer Deiters' cells, was more intense than staining of the outer hair cells, inner hair cells, and pillar cells. Staining intensity was greatest at the basal turn and progressively decreased in the upper turns with the apex showing the weakest staining pattern. This is the first demonstration of a metabotropic P2Y receptor in the guinea pig organ of Corti.

Key Words

ATP - metabotropic receptor - neurotransmitter