Alternative  splicing  of
   the SLO gene.

   The cochlea of the inner ear contains a basilar membrane carrying rows
   of hair cells which respond to a gradient of sound frequencies.

   The  SLO  gene  encodes  a  calcium-regulated  potassium channel. that
   affects frequency sensitivity of hair cells.

   Normal  splicing  results  in low calcium-sensitivity of the potassium
   channel and are found in high-frequency hair cells.

   Alternative  splicing that incorporates the STREX exon results in high
   calcium-sensitivity and are found in low-frequency hair cells.