What fluids fill the ducts and why is the fluid important for hearing?

What are the differences in cellular composition between the tectorial membrane and the vestibular membrane?

What are the major differences among the various hair cells in the organ of Corti?

Clinical note: Degeneration of hair cells in the organ of Corti are a common cause of hearing loss in older individuals. Recent research has shown the ability of hair cells to regenerate in certain experimental systems and this is now an important area of research in sensory neuroscience. Click the image for an expanded view.

Examine other areas of slide 121 for components of the inner ear's vestibular portion (utricle and saccule) (Figs. 23-23 and 23-24) or the cristae of the semicircular canals (Fig. 23-27).

What are the functions and mechanisms of action of the vestibular portion of the inner ear and the semicircular canals?

How do the sensory components of the cristae differ structurally from the organ of Corti?

Next is the lymphatic system.