IN-VITRO STUDIES OF COCHLEAR EXCITATION

Although initially met with scepticism, the in vitro temporal bone pre paration of the cochlea has proved to be a very important tool for inv estigating the function of the mammalian auditory system. As present t echniques are able to maintain sufficient cellular viability, the in v itro preparation offers a valuable bridge between investigations using isolated outer hair cells and the intact system in vivo.