Age-dependent changes in the expression of klotho protein, TRPV5 and TRPV6 in mouse inner ear

Abstract

Immunostaining for klotho was observed in stria vascularis, outer and inner hair cells (OHCs and IHCs), and in vestibular sensory cells and dark cells, and less intensely in the spiral and vestibular ganglion cells. Expression of TRPV5 was found in stria vascularis, organ of Corti, vestibular sensory cells and dark cells, and less intensely in the spiral and vestibular ganglion cells. Expression of TRPV6 was found in supporting cells of the organ of Corti, with weak labelling in OHCs and IHCs. Weak fluorescence was also noted in stria vascularis, and faint fluorescence in the spiral ligament. Vestibular sensory and dark cells as well as vestibular ganglion cells showed weak fluorescence. In the old animals, the expression patterns of klotho, TRPV5 and TRPV6 were identical with those in young animals, although fluorescence intensity was significantly weaker.