Expression of Intermediate Filaments and Actin in the Embryonic Human Inner Ear

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Abstract
The immunoreactivity for intermediate filaments (IF) and F-actin was documented in serially cryosectioned human inner ears aged 14-19 gestational weeks. An individual immunoreactivity for IF was documented for different cell types in both the cochlear and vestibular parts of the labyrinth. All secretory epithelia showed a similar expression of the cytoskeleton. In outer hair cells, immunoreactivity for vimentin was documented, but not for other IF types. The cytoskeletal composition is similar in the tectorial membrane and in supporting cells of the great epithelial ridge. Strong immunoreactivity for F-actin occurs close to the surface of all vestibular organs and Kölliker's organ, but not to the same extent in other epithelia lining the endolymphatic space.