The Efferent System or Olivocochlear Function Bundle - Fine Regulator and Protector of Hearing Perception
Year: 2010
Type: article
Abstract: The efferent system of the ear possesses several distinct functions, in particular noise protection, mediation of selective attention and improvement of signal to noise ratio. It also supports adaptation and frequency selectivity by modification of the micromechanical properties of outer hair cells. There are many differences in anatomy and physiology between the medial and lateral olivocochlear system suggesting that they are functionally separate systems. The efferent system is affected by inner ear stressors, e.g. noise, ototoxic drugs, and might play a key role in tinnitus generation and maintenance. The anatomy, physiology and its realtionships to inner ear pathologies are discussed in this review article.
Author: Raphael Richard Ciuman
Language: English
Subfield: Sensory Systems
Field: Neuroscience
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W4386990703