Regulation of outer hair cell cytoskeletal stiffness by intracellular Ca2+: underlying mechanism and implications for cochlear mechanics
Two Ca2+-dependent mechanisms have been proposed to regulate the mechanical
properties of outer hair cells (OHCs), the sensory–motor receptors of the mammalian
cochlea. One involves the efferent neurotransmitter, acetylcholine, decreasing OHC axial
stiffness. The other depends on elevation of intracellular free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+] i)
resulting in OHC elongation, a process known as Ca2+-dependent slow motility. Here we
provide evidence that both these phenomena share a common mechanism. In whole-cell …
properties of outer hair cells (OHCs), the sensory–motor receptors of the mammalian
cochlea. One involves the efferent neurotransmitter, acetylcholine, decreasing OHC axial
stiffness. The other depends on elevation of intracellular free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+] i)
resulting in OHC elongation, a process known as Ca2+-dependent slow motility. Here we
provide evidence that both these phenomena share a common mechanism. In whole-cell …