Auditory placode

Auditory Placode

The auditory placode is a thickened area of ectoderm that gives rise to the inner ear in vertebrates. It is one of the two placodes (the other being the vestibular placode) that contribute to the formation of the inner ear.

Development

The auditory placode develops from the ectoderm, the outermost layer of the embryo. It begins as a thickening of the ectoderm, which then invaginates to form the otic vesicle or otic pit. This vesicle detaches from the ectoderm and migrates into the underlying mesoderm, where it differentiates into the structures of the inner ear.

Function

The auditory placode is responsible for the formation of the cochlea, the organ of hearing, and the vestibular system, which is responsible for balance. It also contributes to the formation of the auditory nerve, which transmits sound and balance information to the brain.

Clinical Significance

Abnormal development of the auditory placode can lead to congenital hearing loss and balance disorders. Research is ongoing to understand the genetic and environmental factors that influence the development of the auditory placode and to develop treatments for disorders related to it.

See Also

• Placode
• Inner ear
• Ectoderm
• Mesoderm
• Cochlea
• Vestibular system
• Auditory nerve