Distribution of Beta-Tubulin in Guinea Pig Inner Ear

Abstract

Our previous research had suggested that β-tubulin might be an autoantigen for autoimmune inner ear disease. In this study, the expression of β-tubulin in inner ears of normal and tubulin-immunized guinea pigs was examined by immunohistochemical staining. Strong immunoreactivity to β-tubulin monoclonal antibody was found in stria vascularis, neurons of the spiral ganglion, cochlear nerve fibers and spiral ligament. Diffuse staining was found in the stria vascularis and the neurons of the spiral ganglion, while dense network staining was found in the spiral ligament, the nerve fibers and the vestibular end organs. The semicircular canals, endolymphatic duct and sac were also positively stained. In inner ears of guinea pigs challenged with β-tubulin, staining intensity was diminished in the stria vascularis, the spiral ligament, and the neurons of the spiral ganglion. The results suggest that β-tubulin is distributed to most structures of guinea pig inner ear. A challenge to the inner ear by tubulin could change the β-tubulin distribution and cause degeneration in the spiral ganglion. The results support the hypothesis that β-tubulin might be an autoantigen for autoimmune inner ear disease.