Otolithic Membrane
Synonyms
Membrane, Otolithic
Membranes, Otolithic
Otoconia
Otoconias
Otolith
Otolithic Membranes
Otoliths
Statoconia
Statoconias
A gelatinous membrane overlying the acoustic maculae of SACCULE AND UTRICLE. It contains minute crystalline particles (otoliths) of CALCIUM CARBONATE and protein on its outer surface. In response to head movement, the otoliths shift causing distortion of the vestibular hair cells which transduce nerve signals to the BRAIN for interpretation of equilibrium.