ADRENERGIC-INNERVATION OF THE HUMAN ENDOLYMPHATIC SAC

Adrenergic innervation of the human endolymphatic sac (ES) has not been verified previously. To investigate this question a sensitive histofluorescence method for visualization of catecholamines and serotonin, using a solution composed of sucrose-potassium phosphate-glyoxylic acid (SPG) in cryostat sections, was employed. Three human ES specimens were obtained during surgery for acoustic neuroma. Distinct fluorescence in the subepithelial tissue, indicating the presence of monoaminergic neurones and their axonal varicosities, was observed. SPG-positive terminal nerve fibres around small ES capillaries and subendothelially were also seen. Like the effects of sympathetic stimulation elsewhere in the human body, the ES might respond to such stimulation with, for example, vasoconstriction and increased transepithelial water transport. Since the ES is thought to be responsible for maintaining inner ear fluid homeostasis, adrenergic influence could be important for it to function properly.