Cochlea, Inner And Outer Hair Cells, Sem
by Oliver Meckes EYE OF SCIENCE
Title
Cochlea, Inner And Outer Hair Cells, Sem
Artist
Oliver Meckes EYE OF SCIENCE
Medium
Photograph - Photograph
Description
This image shows the inner (one row, left) and outer hair cells (Stereocilia or Stereovilli, 3-4 rows middle) of the organ of Corti (from guinea pig, human has only three rows). The tectorial membrane, which usually is connected with the tips of the stereocilia has been lifted up to get a clear view. The cell bodies of the surrounding tissue (beige) with long extensions are visible on the right side, the so called Deiter's cells. The ear of all mammals consists of the auricle with the external ear canal, the middle ear behind the eardrum with the ossicles which are connected to the "oval window" and make the transition to the fluid-filled inner ear with the cochlea and organ of balance. The organ of Corti lies in the entire length of the cochlea. Close to the oval window the hair cells of the organ of Corti are sensitive to high tones, while towards the tip of the cochlea they are sensitive to lower tones. The tectorial membrane is connected to the tips of the hair cells’ stereovilli, which causes these stereovilli to shift and stretch when there is sound pressure. These distractions are converted into electrical impulses that are sent to the brain. Scanning electron micrograph; magnification 2000x (at 15 cm image width).
Uploaded
May 19th, 2021
Embed
Share
Comments
There are no comments for Cochlea, Inner And Outer Hair Cells, Sem. Click here to post the first comment.