All of the functions of these cells are not known, but one role is to maintain high potassium concentrations in the fluid (endolymph) surrounding the hair cells of the cochlea; these pigment cells are critical for survival of the stria and the stria is critical for survival of the hair cells. (lsu.edu)
As researchers from the Babraham Institute and the US - based National Cancer Institute discovered, this localised increase in potassium concentration subdues the anti-tumour activity of T cells. (immunology.org)
«The influence of ACTH on the sodium and potassium concentration of human mixed saliva», B. Grad, Clinical Endocrinology, 1982 (ovacue.com)