Location of the Cochlear Amplifier
Author Information
Author(s): Ren Tianying, He Wenxuan, Porsov Edward
Primary Institution: Oregon Health & Science University
Hypothesis
The cochlear amplifier is thought to be a local cellular process at an area basal to the response peak on the spiral basilar membrane.
Conclusion
The cochlea amplifier resides at a small longitudinal region basal to the response peak in the sensitive cochlea.
Supporting Evidence
- The cochlea can boost soft sound-induced vibrations as much as 50 dB/mm.
- The amplification works maximally at low sound levels and at frequencies immediately below the peak-response frequency.
- The amplification decreases more than 65 dB/mm as sound levels increase.
Takeaway
The cochlea helps us hear soft sounds by amplifying them in a specific area, making it easier for us to detect quiet noises.
Methodology
The study used a sensitive laser interferometer to measure vibrations at two locations along the basilar membrane in sensitive gerbil cochleae.
Limitations
Data acquisition efficiency was low due to high-frequency hearing loss and poor visibility of cochlear fluid.
Participant Demographics
Thirty healthy young Mongolian gerbils (40–80 g) were used in this study.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website