Figure 1. The cochlea structure and function.

a. The illustrated organ of Corti in cross-section. b. An OCT image of the organ of Corti in vivo. Circles mark the locations of vibration measurement. c. A cartoon of hair cell excitation without OHC length change. d. A cartoon showing that when depolarized, OHCs contract to become shorter in length. This will draw together the reticular lamina and basilar membrane; IHC, inner hair cell; OHC, outer hair cell; PCs, pillar cells.