The Primary Auditory Neurons of the Mammalian Cochlea

This volume details the essential role of the spiral ganglion neurons. The volume elucidates and characterizes their development, their environment, their electrophysiological characteristics, their connectivity to their targets in the inner ear and the brain, and discusses the potential for their regeneration. A comprehensive review about the spiral ganglion neurons is important for researchers not only in the inner ear field but also in development, neuroscience, biophysics as well as neural networks researchers. The chapters are authored by leading researchers in the field.

Preface.- Connecting the Inner Ear to the Central Auditory System: Molecular Development and Characteristics of the Primary Auditory Neurons and Their Network.- Early Development of the Spiral Ganglion.- Neurotrophic Factor Function during Ear Development: Expression Changes Define Critical Phases for Neuronal Viability.- The Electrophysiological Signature of Spiral Ganglion Neurons.- The Ribbon Synapse Between Type I Spiral Ganglion Neurons and Inner Hair Cells.- Central Projections of Spiral Ganglion Neurons.- The Spiral Ganglion in an Out-of-Body Experience: a Brief History of In Vitro Studies of the Spiral Ganglion.- Loss, Degeneration, and Preservation of the Spiral Ganglion Neurons and Their Processes.- Stem Cells for the Replacement of Auditory Neurons.