title: Molecular and physiological bases of the K+ circulation in the mammalian inner ear.
abstract: Endolymph, the extracellular solution in cochlea, contains 150 mM K(+) and exhibits a potential of approximately +80 mV relative to neighboring extracellular spaces. This unique situation, essential for hearing, is maintained by K(+) circulation from perilymph to endolymph through the cochlear lateral wall. Recent studies have identified ion-transport molecules involved in the K(+) circulation and their pathophysiological relevance.
authors.affiliation: Department of Pharmacology, Division of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan.
authors.forename: Hiroshi
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Hibino
authors.forename: Yoshihisa
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Kurachi
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D007758:Ear, Inner / Q000166:cytology / Q000378:metabolism*; D004710:Endolymph / Q000737:chemistry; D006801:Humans; D017136:Ion Transport / Q000502:physiology; D008322:Mammals; D008564:Membrane Potentials / Q000502:physiology; D011188:Potassium / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000502:physiology
chemical_list: D011188:Potassium