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Inner ear sensory cells, SEM
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Inner ear sensory cells, SEM
Inner ear sensory cells. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of bundles of cilia (hair cells, blue) situated in the macula utriculi within the human inner ear. Each bundle comprises many stereocilia and one long kinocilium. They detect directional movement, such as the tilting of the head. The cilia are immersed in a fluid, called the endolymph. Currents in this fluid displace the position of the cilia, resulting in the production of electrical pulses, which are sent to the brain along the vestibular nerve. The surrounding support cells are covered in projections called microvilli (brown). Otoliths (red) are also seen. These crystals also help sense balance
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6449607
© STEVE GSCHMEISSNER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Auditory Sense Balance Cilia Ciliated Cilium Coloured Sem Hearing Inner Ear Microvilli Microvillus Orientation Otolith Positional Sensing Sensory Sensory Cell Spatial Stereocilia Cells False Coloured
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This print from Science Photo Library showcases the intricate inner workings of our auditory system. The image reveals bundles of cilia, depicted in a striking blue hue, found within the macula utriculi of the human inner ear. These hair cells play a crucial role in detecting directional movement and maintaining balance. Immersed in a fluid known as endolymph, these cilia are displaced by currents within it, triggering the production of electrical pulses. These signals are then transmitted to the brain through the vestibular nerve, allowing us to perceive changes in orientation or tilting of our heads. The surrounding support cells featured in this image are adorned with microvilli projections colored brown. Additionally, red otoliths can be observed; these tiny crystals aid in sensing balance alongside other sensory functions. Through false coloring and scanning electron microscopy techniques employed here, we gain an extraordinary glimpse into this complex biological process that enables us to hear and maintain spatial awareness. This photograph not only highlights the beauty and intricacy of our anatomy but also serves as a reminder of how remarkable our bodies truly are.
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