Kinocilium
Kinocilium
Kinocilium (pronunciation: /kɪˌnoʊˈsɪliəm/) is a type of cilium found in the sensory receptor cells of the inner ear. It plays a crucial role in the detection of mechanical stimuli, such as sound and acceleration.
Etymology
The term "kinocilium" is derived from the Greek words "kineo" meaning "to move" and "kilia" meaning "hair". This is in reference to the hair-like structure of the kinocilium and its role in movement detection.
Function
The kinocilium is the longest cilium in the hair cell and is responsible for initiating a signal when it is bent by sound waves or head movement. This signal is then transmitted to the brain via the auditory nerve.
Related Terms
- Cilium: A small hair-like structure present on the surface of all mammalian cells. Cilia are primarily responsible for locomotion and sensory functions.
- Stereocilium: A non-motile cilium which is shorter than the kinocilium and arranged in a staircase-like pattern around it. Stereocilia help in amplifying the movement of the kinocilium.
- Hair Cell: A type of cell that has hair-like structures (cilia) on its surface and is responsible for converting physical stimuli into electrical signals.
- Inner Ear: The innermost part of the vertebrate ear which houses the cochlea and vestibular system, responsible for hearing and balance respectively.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Kinocilium
- Wikipedia's article - Kinocilium
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