Question

Describe the ionic basis of mechanotransduction in hair cells. What is a difference of endolymph comparing to perilymph? Explain in your own words and give examples.

Answer 1

The hair cell tip contains mechanotransduction receptors which are activated by sound stimuli. They contain receptors that activate sodium channel to create an action potential that will enter into the cochlear nerve. In the absence of stimulus these channels are closed.

The features of perilymph and endolymph are entirely different. The perilymph resembles extracellular fluid and endolymph resembles intracellular fluid which is rich in K+ and less Na+.Perilymph is seen in bony labyrinth and endolymph in membranous labyrinth.