Which of the following is a similarity between a hair cell and a typical neuron?

• A. Both generate action potentials along their axons.
• B. Both are capable of regenerating after injury in the adult mammalian brain.
• C. Both can release neurotransmitters in response to stimulation.
• D. Both possess myelin sheaths for rapid signal conduction.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the function of hair cells and neurons. Hair cells are specialized sensory cells found in the inner ear that detect sound vibrations and head movements, while neurons are the primary signaling cells of the nervous system responsible for transmitting electrical signals.
2. Step 2: Analyze the options provided. For example, hair cells do not generate action potentials along axons because they lack axons; instead, they release neurotransmitters to communicate with nearby neurons. Neurons, on the other hand, can generate action potentials along their axons.
3. Step 3: Consider the regenerative capacity of hair cells and neurons. In adult mammals, neurons generally do not regenerate after injury, and hair cells also have limited regenerative capacity, making this option incorrect.
4. Step 4: Evaluate the ability of both hair cells and neurons to release neurotransmitters. Hair cells release neurotransmitters in response to mechanical stimulation (e.g., sound waves), and neurons release neurotransmitters in response to electrical signals. This is a key similarity between the two cell types.
5. Step 5: Examine the presence of myelin sheaths. Myelin sheaths are found on the axons of neurons to facilitate rapid signal conduction, but hair cells do not possess axons or myelin sheaths, making this option incorrect.