Intensity-Driven Shifts in Tonotopic Coding in Humans: A Framework for Cochlear Implant Frequency Allocation

Tonotopic cochlear organization underlies auditory perception, yet cochlear implant (CI) programming typically employs fixed frequency-place maps not based on human physiology. Animal studies suggest intensity-dependent shifts in cochlear tuning, but this has not been confirmed in humans. Here, we demonstrate that cochlear tonotopy dynamically shifts basally with increasing sound intensity in humans. Using intracochlear electrocochleography from a 22-electrode array, we found that high-intensity stimuli (>80 dB SPL) shifted best-frequency locations basally by up to 158{degrees} ([~]one octave) and significantly broadened cochlear excitation compared to threshold stimulation. This intensity-driven shift challenges static CI frequency mapping and supports a dynamic, intensity-adjusted approach that better replicates natural cochlear processing. Implementing such intensity-based frequency allocation in cochlear implants may reduce place-frequency mismatch, potentially enhancing critical auditory outcomes for CI users, including speech recognition in complex listening environments and improved music perception. TeaserHigher sound intensity shifts the ears internal frequency map, revealing dynamic hearing mechanics in humans.