The net current flowing through an ion channel at a cell's resting potential flows in one direction determined by the equilibrium potentials of the ions that flow through it. Given this, how is it possible for hair cells in the cochlea to alternately hyperpolarize and depolarize during sound waves when they only have a single mechanosensitive ion channel (TMC1/TMC2 heteromer)?

The net current flowing through an ion channel at a cell's resting potential flows in one direction determined by the equilibrium potentials of the ions that flow through it. Given this, how is it possible for hair cells in the cochlea to alternately hyperpolarize and depolarize during sound waves when they only have a single mechanosensitive ion channel (TMC1/TMC2 heteromer)?

Human Physiology: From Cells to Systems (MindTap Course List)

9th Edition

ISBN:9781285866932

Author:Lauralee Sherwood

Publisher:Lauralee Sherwood

Chapter6: The Peripheral Nervous System: Afferent Division; Special Senses

Section: Chapter Questions

Problem 8RE

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