Immunohistochemical localisation of nerve growth factor-like protein in the organ of Corti of the developing rat.

The presence of nerve growth factor (NGF)-like protein was investigated in the cochlea of the developing rat between birth and postnatal day 30, by the indirect immunofluorescence technique. Nerve growth factor-like protein could be detected from birth up to day 8. The immunostaining was localised within the hair mainly above their nuclei. No NGF-like immunoreactivity was observed in spiral ganglion cells. The data suggest that NGF acts as a neurotrophic factor, especially for efferent endings in the developing cochlea.