How Cells in the Developing Ear 'Practice' Hearing
Wednesday, November 25, 2015 - 12:30
in Physics & Chemistry
Before the fluid of the middle ear drains and sound waves penetrate for the first time, the inner ear cells of newborn rodents practice for their big debut. Researchers have figured out the molecular chain of events that enables the cells to make "sounds" on their own, essentially "practicing" their ability to process sounds in the world around them.