What is the function of Reissner's membrane?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the function of Reissner's membrane, which is a structure in the inner ear. It plays a role in the anatomy of the cochlea and is involved in the process of hearing by separating different fluid compartments within the ear.
Answer
Maintains ion concentration differences and separates cochlear structures.
The Reissner membrane maintains the differences in ion concentration between the endolymph and perilymph. It separates the scala vestibuli from the cochlear duct and helps transmit vibrations from the vestibular duct to the cochlear duct.
Answer for screen readers
The Reissner membrane maintains the differences in ion concentration between the endolymph and perilymph. It separates the scala vestibuli from the cochlear duct and helps transmit vibrations from the vestibular duct to the cochlear duct.
More Information
Reissner's membrane plays a critical role in the function of hearing by maintaining the appropriate ionic environment needed for auditory transduction.
Sources
- Reissner's Membrane - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics - sciencedirect.com
- Vestibular membrane - Wikipedia - en.wikipedia.org
- Reissner's membrane | anatomy - Britannica - britannica.com