Question

Ion channels that are found in either an open or closed formation are considered to be gated An example of a gated ion channel is the members of one family of cation channels that are opened and closed by the movements of stereocilia on the hair cells of the inner ear in response to sound of motions of the head. Which category does this example fall under?

Answer 1

The ion channels opened and closed by the movements of stereocilia in the inner ear are known as mechanosensitive ion channels, which respond to mechanical stimuli.

Step-by-step explanation:

Ion channels can be gated and categorized based on how they open and close. The example provided, where the movements of stereocilia on the hair cells of the inner ear respond to sound or motions of the head to open and close cation channels, falls under the category of mechanosensitive ion channels.

These channels are unique as they respond to mechanical deformation or movement, as opposed to chemical or electrical signals.