Objective: To investigate the degeneration mechanics of outer hair cells in guinea pig.
Method: The mechanics of outer hair cells isolated by enzyme were observed under inverted microscope for 6-8 h continuously.
Result: Over half of living outer hair cells could keep good conditions in 6 hours. During the degeneration there was always a longitudinal fold line from tip to base. Presence or absence of calcium, as well as lossing of stereociliary bundle, couldn't change the conditions of out hair cells.
Conclusion: Neither calcium nor stereociliary bundle is the decisive cause in keeping outer hair cells alive, and its degeneration may be basically related with something surrounding the cell.