Stereocilia

Stereocilia are specialized microvilli that are present on the apical surface of certain cells within the sensory epithelium of the inner ear. They are key components in the process of mechanotransduction, which is the conversion of mechanical stimuli into electrical activity.

Structure

Stereocilia are cylindrical, rigid protrusions that extend from the apical surface of cells. They are composed of a core of tightly packed actin filaments, which are cross-linked by fimbrin and espin proteins. The actin core is surrounded by a plasma membrane that contains a variety of proteins involved in mechanotransduction.

Function

The primary function of stereocilia is to detect mechanical stimuli and convert them into electrical signals. This process, known as mechanotransduction, occurs when the stereocilia are deflected by sound waves or head movements. The deflection causes the opening of mechanically gated ion channels, leading to an influx of cations and the generation of an electrical signal.

Clinical significance

Damage to or loss of stereocilia can lead to hearing loss and balance disorders. Certain drugs, such as aminoglycoside antibiotics and cisplatin, can cause damage to stereocilia, leading to ototoxicity. Genetic disorders, such as Usher syndrome and Alport syndrome, can also affect the structure and function of stereocilia.

See also

• Hair cell
• Microvillus
• Mechanosensation

References

Stereocilia Resources
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