Neural control and innate self-tuning of the hair cell's active process.

We propose a model for the feedback control processes that underlie the robustness and high sensitivity of mechanosensory hair cells. Our model encompasses self-tuning active processes intrinsic to these cells, which drive the amplification of mechanical stimuli by consuming metabolic energy, and a neural input process that protects these cells from damage caused by powerful stimuli. We explore the effects of these two feedback mechanisms on mechanical self-oscillations of the sense cells and their response to external forcing.