The Peripheral Auditory System, Fall 2005

Abstract:: Experimental approaches to the study of the auditory periphery, presented through lectures by faculty and presentations of primary literature by students. Topics include: functional anatomy of the inner ear, transduction by hair cells, synaptic transmission, endocochlear potential, outer hair cells and their electromotility, responses of auditory nerve fibers, efferent control of cochlear function, inner-ear development, and damage and repair of hair-cell organs. Evaluations of students based on oral and written presentations, laboratory exercises, a final examination, and participation in discussions.

Physiology of the Ear, Fall 2004

Abstract:: Physical and physiological mechanisms underlying the transduction and analysis of acoustic signals in the auditory periphery. Topics include the acoustics, mechanics, and hydrodynamics of sound transmission; the biophysical basis for cochlear amplification; the physiology of hair-cell transduction and synaptic transmission; efferent feedback control; the analysis and coding of simple and complex sounds by the inner ear; and the physiological bases for hearing disorders. Based primarily on reading and discussions of original research literature. Topics for this course are based primarily on reading and discussions of original research literature that cover the analysis as well as the underlying physical and physiological mechanisms of acoustic signals in the auditory periphery. Topics include the acoustics, mechanics, and hydrodynamics of sound transmission; the biophysical basis for cochlear amplification; the physiology of hair-cell transduction and synaptic transmission; efferent feedback control; the analysis and coding of simple and complex sounds by the inner ear; and the physiological bases for hearing disorders.