Effect of Intracochlear Aminooxyacetic Acid on Cochlear Potentials and Endolymph Composition

Abstract

Aminooxyacetic acid (AOAA; 1 mM) when perfused through the scala tympani of guinea pigs produced a biphasic reduction in the endocochlear potential, together with a shift in the input-output functions of the cochlear microphonics and the compound action potential of the cochlear nerve. Since the ionic (Na+, K+) content of the scala media was not altered, it appears that such changes did not underlie the reduction recorded in the endocochlear potential. The negative direct current potential recorded in the organ of Corti did not appear to be affected by the drug. Attempts to antagonize the effects of AOAA with pyridoxine failed.