Structure and function of the ear and auditory nervous system.

Abstract

The transduction from sound vibrations to a nerve ending stimulus takes place in the organ of Corti. This process, resulting from fluid particle movement of a magnitude equivalent to the dimensions of the electron cloud around an atom, involves more than a simple deformation of the sensory cell. The fluid environment of these cells must be such that it provides sufficient oxygen and nutrients for the cells' survival and at the same time maintains a condition to enhance the biophysical process. The spiral capillaries beneath the tunnel of Corti furnish the metabolites for the Cortilymph surrounding the sensory cells. The capillaries of the stria vascularis provide this structure, an organ in its own right, so that it can maintain the high potassium concentration and positive potential of endolymph which are necessary for the transduction process. The stria vascularis itself and its blood supply and the sensory cells and their blood supply are all vulnerable to attack by various toxic agents, thus altering the homeostatic condition and resulting in a hearing loss.