Hair cells

Definition

Hair cells are specialized sensory cells located in the inner ear that convert mechanical sound vibrations into electrical signals that the brain can interpret as sound. They play a critical role in the sensory perception of hearing and balance within the somatic nervous system.

Related terms

Cochlea: The spiral-shaped cavity in the inner ear containing hair cells, responsible for converting sound vibrations into nerve impulses.

Auditory Nerve: A bundle of nerve fibers that carries hearing information between the cochlea and the brain, allowing for the perception of sound.

Vestibular System: The system in the body that is responsible for maintaining balance and spatial orientation; it includes structures in the inner ear such as semicircular canals which contain hair cells