Development of the Human Cochlea

Abstract

This paper summarizes the most recent findings dealing with the anatomical development of the human cochlea, and especially with ultrastructural data from both scanning and transmission electron microscopic studies. It also briefly reviews physiological findings and attempts to specify the timing of the main developmental events, i.e. the onset of function, the acquisition of adult properties, and the sensitive periods.

Key Words:

• human cochlea
• structural development
• synaptogenesis
• ciliogenesis
• onset of function
• physiological development