auditory receptor

n. Hair cells in the inner ear are of two different types: inner hair cells, which are the auditory receptors, and outer hair cells, contributing to “tuning” the cochlea, though they also have a supporting role. Hair cells are located between the so-called tectorial and basilar membranes in the chamber known as scala media of the cochlea. The movement of the liquid inside the scala media (endo- lymph) as a result of the action of the ossicles of the middle ear causes a bending of the stereocilia (hairs) attached to the tectorial membrane. A receptor potential is generated and eventually may result in an action potential. The auditory information will be transmitted to the brain by the VIII cranial nerve (vestibulocochlear or auditory nerve).     -AA