The cytokine macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) acts as a neurotrophin in the developing inner ear of the zebrafish, Danio rerio

► Cytokines and sensory systems: MIF has a critical role affecting inner ear innervation. ► Otocyst cytokines influence inner ear neuron directional outgrowth and survival. ► Embryonic and adult inner ear neurons express neurotrophic cytokine MIF receptors (R). ► Blocking MIF or MIF R with morpholinos profoundly affects inner ear development. ► MIF effects are mediated at least partially through p53 pathways.