Palatoglossus

Palatoglossus (pronounced: păl′ə-tō-glŏs′əs) is a muscle of the human anatomy that is part of the soft palate and the pharynx. It is also known as the glossopalatine muscle.

Etymology

The term "Palatoglossus" is derived from the Latin words "palatum" meaning palate and "glossus" meaning tongue. This is indicative of the muscle's location and function, connecting the palate and the tongue.

Function

The Palatoglossus muscle functions to elevate the back of the tongue during swallowing and speaking. It also helps to close the oropharyngeal isthmus during these actions, preventing the passage of food and liquid into the nasopharynx.

Anatomy

The Palatoglossus muscle originates from the palatine aponeurosis, which is a dense connective tissue located at the posterior part of the hard palate. It then descends down to insert into the side of the tongue. It is innervated by the pharyngeal plexus via the vagus nerve.

Related Terms

Pharynx: The part of the throat situated behind the mouth and nasal cavity.
Soft Palate: The soft, fleshy part towards the back of the roof of the mouth.
Oropharyngeal Isthmus: The narrow opening between the oral cavity and the pharynx.
Nasopharynx: The upper part of the pharynx, connecting with the nasal cavity above the soft palate.
Vagus Nerve: The tenth cranial nerve that interfaces with the parasympathetic control of the heart, lungs, and digestive tract.