tectorial membrane

tectorial membrane

A structure in the organ of Corti in the cochlea overlying the bristles of the acoustic hair cells on the basilar membrane. As particular cells vibrate under the influence of sound waves the bristles wipe against the tectorial membrane thus activating those hair cells to send nerve impulses to the brain.

Collins Dictionary of Medicine © Robert M. Youngson 2004, 2005

tectorial membrane

a membrane, present in the COCHLEA of the inner ear, that runs parallel with the BASILAR MEMBRANE. Between the tectorial and basilar membranes, sensory cells span the gap and these cells are connected with nerve fibres which join the auditory nerve. The tectorial membrane forms part of the organ of Corti.

Collins Dictionary of Biology, 3rd ed. © W. G. Hale, V. A. Saunders, J. P. Margham 2005