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A model for active elements in cochlear biomechanics.

S T Neely, D O Kim

The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America

|May 1, 1986

Summary

This study presents a mathematical model of the mammalian cochlea, highlighting the crucial role of active elements, representing outer hair cells, in achieving high sensitivity and sharp tuning. Excessive amplification by these elements can lead to spontaneous otoacoustic emissions.

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Area of Science:

Auditory Neuroscience
Biophysics
Mathematical Biology

Background:

The mammalian cochlea exhibits remarkable sensitivity and frequency selectivity.
Outer hair cells (OHCs) are known to play a critical role in this sensitivity through their motile action.
Understanding the biomechanical contribution of OHCs is essential for explaining cochlear function.

Purpose of the Study:

To develop a linear, mathematical model of cochlear biomechanics.
To incorporate active elements representing OHC function into the model.
To investigate the relationship between active elements, cochlear amplification, and spontaneous otoacoustic emissions.

Main Methods:

Formulation of a linear mathematical model for cochlear mechanics.
Inclusion of spatially distributed active elements simulating OHC motile force generation.
Modeling the coupling of active elements to cochlear partition mechanics and their power source (electrochemical energy).

Main Results:

The model demonstrates that active elements are necessary to replicate the high sensitivity and sharp tuning of the mammalian cochlea.
Active elements function collectively as a cochlear amplifier.
Excessive gain in this cochlear amplifier leads to spontaneous oscillations and the generation of spontaneous otoacoustic emissions.

Conclusions:

A linear mathematical model incorporating active elements effectively simulates key aspects of mammalian cochlear function.
Outer hair cell motile action, modeled as active elements, is fundamental to cochlear amplification.
The model provides a mechanistic link between cochlear amplifier gain and the generation of spontaneous otoacoustic emissions.

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