Plasticity in human directional hearing.

ABSTRACT

Interaural time difference (ITD), the main cue for localization of low-frequency sound in azimuth, is widely thought to be evaluated according to Jeffress' model. This theory proposes that each of an array of neurons detects coinciding input from both ears, conducted along axonal delay lines, with the azimuth angle corresponding to the activation of selected neurons. Thus, sound source localization is assumed to depend on axon conduction velocities, a relatively fixed parameter. Clinical experience suggests that directional hearing is adaptable. We investigated if sound localization in azimuth could adapt plastically to altered ITDs. We equipped binaural insert hearing aids with adjustable electronic delay lines. Subjects with normal hearing were required to wear these devices during all waking hours for several days. Localization of an invisible sound source was measured in an anechoic room before and at various intervals after introduction of a constant delay in one ear between 171 and 684 mus. Test sounds were high-pass, low-pass and broad-band noises. Introduction of a delay in one ear lead to an immediate displacement of the perceived sound location towards the opposite side. Within hours of exposure, the displacement was reduced, and further normalization of the perceived localization occurred over several days. After removal of the delays sound localization normalized rapidly. We conclude that ITD alterations can lead to plastic adaptation of directional hearing, which cannot rely exclusively on fixed axon conduction velocities. Our results suggest additional mechanisms for directional hearing on the basis ITD.