Vestibular membrane

Vestibular membrane

The vestibular membrane (or Reissner's membrane) is a part of the inner ear in mammals. It separates the cochlear duct from the scala vestibuli. The vestibular membrane is a thin, non-sensory layer of simple squamous epithelium cells. It plays a crucial role in the function of the cochlea, which is involved in hearing.

Structure

The vestibular membrane is a thin layer of cells that separates the cochlear duct from the scala vestibuli. It is composed of two layers: an outer layer that faces the scala vestibuli and an inner layer that faces the cochlear duct. The outer layer is composed of simple squamous epithelium cells, while the inner layer is composed of a thin layer of connective tissue.

Function

The primary function of the vestibular membrane is to separate the cochlear duct from the scala vestibuli. This separation is crucial for the proper functioning of the cochlea. The cochlear duct contains a fluid called endolymph, which is different in composition from the perilymph that fills the scala vestibuli. The vestibular membrane prevents these two fluids from mixing, which is essential for the proper transduction of sound waves into nerve impulses.

Clinical significance

Damage to the vestibular membrane can lead to a variety of hearing disorders. For example, a rupture of the vestibular membrane can lead to a sudden loss of hearing and balance, a condition known as perilymph fistula. In addition, diseases such as Meniere's disease can cause a thickening of the vestibular membrane, which can also lead to hearing loss and balance problems.

See also

• Cochlea
• Scala vestibuli
• Scala tympani
• Cochlear duct
• Perilymph
• Endolymph

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