Membranous labyrinth

The Membranous labyrinth (/mɛmˈbreɪnəs ˈlæbrɪnθ/; from Latin membrana, meaning "membrane", and Greek labyrinthos, meaning "maze") is a complex system of fluid-filled tubes and sacs located within the bony labyrinth of the inner ear. It plays a crucial role in the processes of hearing and balance.

Structure

The membranous labyrinth is composed of three main parts: the cochlea, the vestibule, and the semicircular canals. Each of these components is filled with a fluid called endolymph, and is lined with specialized sensory cells known as hair cells.

Cochlea

The cochlea is a spiral-shaped structure that is responsible for converting sound vibrations into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain.

Vestibule

The vestibule is the central part of the membranous labyrinth. It contains two sac-like structures, the utricle and the saccule, which are involved in maintaining balance.

Semicircular Canals

The semicircular canals are three loop-shaped structures that are oriented at right angles to each other. They detect rotational movements of the head.

Function

The membranous labyrinth plays a key role in the senses of hearing and balance. Sound waves cause the fluid in the cochlea to vibrate, stimulating the hair cells and generating electrical signals that are sent to the brain. Similarly, movements of the head cause the fluid in the vestibule and semicircular canals to shift, triggering the hair cells and sending signals to the brain that help to maintain balance.

Related Terms

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Membranous labyrinth
Wikipedia's article - Membranous labyrinth

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Membranous labyrinth