Experimental verification of a new theory of acoustic signal detection in the inner ear related to noncontact detection of potential changes on the tectorial membrane

In this work, a novel theory of acoustic signal detection in the inner ear was described. Our hypothesis is related to the conversion of the acoustic wave into a hydrokinetic signal (in perilymph as non-Newtonian liquid) that causes a local change in the dispersed potential in the electrolyte (endolymph), which is detected by stereocilia of hair cells. The validity of our hypothesis has been proved on the basis of research on the acoustic frequency that cuts our brain out of the audible band (individually for each ear). These frequencies correspond to vibrations of stereocilia that constantly check whether there has been a local disturbance of the dispersed potential in the electrolyte - related to an acoustic signal of a specific frequency. Our studies have shown that such unheard acoustic frequency bands occur in 3.5 kHz divided by 4.4 kHz range and are being tuned (individually for each person and ear) by the brain in dependence on external acoustics stimuli. This effect can only be found in tests involving a quiet analog signal (with an amplitude only slightly higher than the threshold of hearing), which is administered only to one ear at a time. (C) 2022 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

A novel theory of acoustic signal detection in the inner ear is described in this work. The theory suggests that acoustic waves are converted into hydrokinetic signals, causing local changes in the dispersed potential in the electrolyte, which are detected by stereocilia of hair cells. Research has shown that the brain tunes the sensitivity of the auditory system to specific frequencies of sound signals based on external acoustic stimuli.