[Functional integration of the systems acting in the cochlear micromechanics].

The aim of this paper is to suggest a degree of functional integration among the mechanisms acting in cochlear micromechanics. This hypothesis is based mainly on the results of the following research: a) seminal studies on the vibration patterns of the ossicular chain in relation to stimulus frequency and intensity; b) indirect proof of the existence of a second filter to account for the specific frequency selectivity of Corti's organ; c) the demonstration that outer hair cells are only ones to be endowed with contractile proteins and to display contractile activity; d) the definition of the origin and distribution of the olivocochlear efferent system. Although some aspects of the results of this series of research need to be understood in further detail. The knowledge gathered up to now appears to justify the hypothesis illustrated in this paper.