Objective: NOB1 was a transcription-associated protein, consisting of one zinc ribbon domain. This study aimed to investigate the NOB1 expression in spiral ganglion cells of normal guinea pigs and deaf ones.
Methods: Twelve guinea pigs were randomized equally into experimental group and control group. In experimental group, guinea pigs received a single intramuscular injection of gentamicin, while the control group was treated with physiological saline. Auditory brainstem responses (ABR) test was performed before and 10 days after injection, respectively. Guinea pigs of both groups were sacrificed and temporal bones were removed. The expression of NOB1 in the spiral ganglion was evaluated by immunohistochemistry.
Results: NOB1 staining was found expressed in spiral ganglion cells from the basal turn to the apical turn of the cochlea. The expression of NOB1 was found significantly stronger in spiral ganglion cells of deaf guinea pigs as compared with that in normal ones.
Conclusions: The NOB1 was presented in spiral ganglions cells of the guinea pig and might play a role in hearing transduction.