Robert Fettiplace, PhD
Professor, Department of Neuroscience
University of Wisconsin-Madison
A mechanism for otoacoustic emissions in geckos
Human ototacoustic emissions OAEs), both spontaneous and evoked, were first reported in the 1970’s. They are used as evidence for an active mechanical process in the cochlea, and distortion product OAEs are clinically important; however, their mechanism of generation is still not understood. Geckos display prominent spontaneous OAEs at multiple frequencies. We have developed an isolated preparation of the gecko cochlea and have recorded from the auditory hair cells. I shall provide evidence of a mechanical resonance and a new amplification mechanism that probably underlies the OAEs.