Prestin, a membrane protein, is found in which one of the following cells of the organ of Corti?

The correct answer is Option 3 i.e., Outer hair cells. 

Explanation:

Prestin is a membrane protein found specifically in the outer hair cells of the organ of Corti. Therefore, the correct option is:

Option 3) Outer hair cells.

Diagram:

Key Points

1. Organ of Corti:
   1. The organ of Corti is a structure located within the cochlea of the inner ear. It plays a crucial role in the process of hearing.
   2. It consists of sensory cells, supporting cells, and various specialized structures that contribute to the detection and transduction of sound waves into neural signals.
2. Outer Hair Cells (OHCs):
   1. Outer hair cells are one of the two types of sensory cells found within the organ of Corti.
   2. They are arranged in three rows and are situated along the length of the cochlea, parallel to the basilar membrane.
   3. The primary function of outer hair cells is to amplify and fine-tune the vibrations of the basilar membrane in response to sound waves, enhancing the sensitivity and frequency selectivity of hearing.
3. Prestin:
   1. Prestin is a membrane protein that is highly expressed in the lateral plasma membrane of outer hair cells.
   2. It belongs to the SLC26 family of anion transporters and serves as a molecular motor that mediates electromotility in outer hair cells.
   3. Electromotility refers to the ability of outer hair cells to change their length in response to changes in membrane potential, thereby enhancing the mechanical properties of the cochlear amplifier.

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Important Points

• Location: Prestin is specifically found in the outer hair cells of the organ of Corti.
• Function: It plays a critical role in electromotility, allowing outer hair cells to contract and expand in response to electrical signals, thus amplifying the mechanical response to sound stimuli.
• Importance: Prestin-mediated electromotility is essential for the exquisite sensitivity and frequency selectivity of hearing, contributing to the remarkable ability of the auditory system to detect and discriminate sounds over a wide range of frequencies.