Cochlear hair cells are specialized sensory cells located in the cochlea, a spiral-shaped structure in the inner ear. They play a crucial role in hearing by converting sound vibrations into electrical signals that the brain can interpret. There are two types of hair cells: inner hair cells, which primarily send auditory information to the brain, and outer hair cells, which help amplify sound. These cells are essential for our ability to hear, but they are delicate and can be damaged by loud noises, aging, or certain medications. Once damaged, cochlear hair cells do not regenerate in humans, leading to permanent hearing loss.