Kinocilium

Kinocilium

Diagram of a kinocilium

The kinocilium is a specialized type of cilium found on the apical surface of certain sensory cells in the inner ear. It plays a crucial role in the mechanotransduction process, which is essential for the senses of hearing and balance.

Structure

The kinocilium is a single, long cilium that extends from the apex of a hair cell in the vestibular system and the cochlea. Unlike the stereocilia that surround it, the kinocilium contains a 9+2 microtubule arrangement typical of motile cilia. However, in the context of the inner ear, the kinocilium is not motile.

Function

In the vestibular system, the kinocilium is involved in detecting angular acceleration and linear acceleration. It is part of the hair bundle, which also includes numerous stereocilia. The deflection of the hair bundle towards the kinocilium results in the opening of ion channels and the initiation of an electrical signal that is transmitted to the brain.

In the cochlea, the kinocilium is present during the development of the organ of Corti but regresses in mature auditory hair cells. Its presence during development is thought to play a role in the proper orientation and organization of the stereocilia.

Development

During the embryonic development of the inner ear, the kinocilium is crucial for the correct formation of the hair bundle. It acts as a reference point for the growth and orientation of the stereocilia. As the hair cells mature, the kinocilium in the cochlea regresses, while it remains in the vestibular hair cells.

Clinical Significance

Abnormalities in the structure or function of the kinocilium can lead to hearing loss and balance disorders. Research into the kinocilium and its associated proteins is ongoing to better understand its role in inner ear diseases and potential therapeutic targets.

Related Pages

• Cilium
• Stereocilia
• Hair cell
• Vestibular system
• Cochlea