3D morphology of an outer-hair-cell hair bundle increases its displacement and dynamic range.

ABSTRACT: In mammals, outer-hair-cell hair bundles (OHBs) transduce sound-induced forces into receptor currents and are required for the wide dynamic range and high sensitivity of hearing. OHBs differ conspicuously in morphology from other types of bundles. Here, we show that the 3D morphology of an OHB greatly impacts its mechanics and transduction. An OHB comprises rod-like stereocilia, which pivot on the surface of its sensory outer hair cell. Stereocilium pivot positions are arranged in columns and form a V shape. We measure the pivot positions and determine that OHB columns are far from parallel. To calculate the consequences of an OHB's V shape and far-from-parallel columns, we develop a mathematical model of an OHB that relates its pivot positions, 3D morphology, mechanics, and receptor curre

SUBMITTER: Zhu Z 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11480765 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature