Comparison of the intact and segmented dissection for surface preparation of the cochlea in mice

Abstract

Objective: To compare intact dissection and segmented dissection of cochlear surface preparation in adult mice. Methods: From February to March, 2019, Six adult C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into 2 groups: one group (3 mice) for the intact dissection while the other group (3 mice) for the segmented dissection. Cochlear hair cells were labeled with phalloidin for evaluation of the integrity of the basilar membrane. Results: The basilar membranes can be completely dissected from the cochlea by two approaches. The average dissection time is (16.33±1.86)min with the intact dissection approach while (23.66±3.88) min with the segmented dissection(t=-4.173, P=0.002). Immunofluorescence analysis showed all cochlear hair cells werevisible and intact in two groups. Conclusion: Cochlear basilar membrane can be dissected intact in a short time through both approaches. The approaches selection is dependent on the purpose of experiment and operators' experience.