Cochlear lateral wall

The mammalian cochlea is the primary auditory sense organ which converts mechanical sound energy to electrical signals conducted by the nervous systems. The cochlear lateral wall, located laterally to the cochlear sensory epithelium in the cochlear duct, contributes auditory function and maintenance of homeostasis in the cochlear fluid through generation of endocochlear potential and K⁺ recycling from perilymph to endolymph. Although our understanding of the basic mechanisms underlying auditory processing in the cochlea has increased significantly in the last two decades, the structure and function of the cochlear lateral wall seems to have been less appreciated during those periods. This chapter will focus on the cochlear lateral wall in terms of potential as a target for regeneration in particular. First, we will discuss the anatomy of the lateral wall reviewing the recent advance in this field. Next, we will discuss the function of the lateral wall, which is basically demonstrated through the advance of physiological studies, and then we will move on to the molecular basis of the cochlear lateral wall. Finally, we will discuss pathology of the lateral wall and possible strategies for hearing disorder caused by dysfunction of the lateral wall.