otoconia

Introduction

Crystalline particles of calcium carbonate & protein that adhere to gelatinous membranes of the maculae of the utricle & the saccule (sensory epithelium in the inner ear) They are involved in the perception of gravity & acceleration. Gravity & acceleration cause the octoconia to deflect the stereocilia of sensory hair cells. Otoconia are required for normal processing of information regarding spatial orientation & acceleration.

More general terms

• ear structure

More specific terms

• otolith