The Primary Auditory Neurons of the Mammalian Cochlea

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.