Hair cell shearing opens ion channels via single-molecule tip links

Evidence

Use the fluid vibration in the cochlea to rock the tectorial membrane against the basilar membrane, shearing the hair cells and yanking on the single-molecule-tip links connecting them. This opens ion channels and creates the initial “data” used for higher neural processing (section 21.4); 5. — Eric J. Heller, Why You Hear What You Hear- An…, 1926

Categorization

• DEFINE: Clarifies the mechanical-to-electrical transduction mechanism at the molecular scale.