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Abstract
Inner ear hair cells are essential for hearing, balance, and acceleration, yet they do not regenerate in humans, making their maintenance critical for preventing age-related hearing loss. The molecular mechanisms underlying normal hair-cell function and recovery from damage remain poorly understood. This study characterizes energy metabolism in hair cells of chicken auditory and vestibular organs and examines cellular responses to hair-bundle tip link damage. Findings provide insight into metabolic processes and repair mechanisms that support hair-cell resilience, offering a foundation for strategies to preserve sensory function and mitigate hearing loss.