title: Generation of the endocochlear potential: a biophysical model.
abstract: The generation and maintenance of the endocochlear potential (EP) by the stria vascularis is essential for proper function of the cochlea. We present a mathematical model that captures the critical biophysical interactions between the distinct cellular layers that generate the EP. By describing the relationship between the K(+) concentration in the intrastrial space and the intermediate cell transmembrane potential, we rationalize the presence of a large intermediate cell K(+) conductance and predict that the intrastrial [K(+)] is approximately 4 mM at steady state. The model also predicts that the stria vascularis is capable of buffering the EP against external perturbations in a manner modulated by changes in intrastrial [K(+)], thus facilitating hearing sensitivity across the broad dynamic range of the auditory system.
authors.forename: Imran H
authors.initials: IH
authors.lastname: Quraishi
authors.forename: Robert M
authors.initials: RM
authors.lastname: Raphael
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D055592:Biophysical Phenomena; D001703:Biophysics; D003051:Cochlea / Q000502:physiology*; D003055:Cochlear Microphonic Potentials / Q000502:physiology*; D003198:Computer Simulation; D004848:Epithelium / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D008564:Membrane Potentials / Q000502:physiology*; D008954:Models, Biological; D011188:Potassium / Q000378:metabolism*
chemical_list: D011188:Potassium