Sacculus
Sacculus
Sacculus (pronunciation: /ˈsækjʊləs/), also known as the saccule, is a component of the vestibular system in the inner ear that contributes to the sense of balance and spatial orientation for the purpose of coordinating movement.
Etymology
The term "sacculus" is derived from the Latin word "saccus", meaning "a bag". It is a diminutive form, indicating a small bag or sac.
Function
The sacculus is primarily responsible for detecting vertical accelerations and decelerations, such as when we move up and down. It is sensitive to linear movements of the head, rather than rotational movements which are detected by the semicircular canals. The sacculus achieves this through a layer of sensory hair cells located on a bed of jelly-like substance. When the head moves, the jelly-like substance shifts, causing the hair cells to bend and send signals to the brain about the body's movement and orientation.
Related Terms
- Vestibular system: The sensory system that provides the leading contribution to the sense of balance and spatial orientation for the purpose of coordinating movement.
- Semicircular canals: Three fluid-filled bony channels in the inner ear, responsible for detecting rotational movements.
- Utricle (ear): Another sac-like structure in the vestibular system, responsible for detecting horizontal movements.
- Otolith: The calcium carbonate crystals that rest on top of the hair cells in the sacculus and utricle, whose movement triggers the hair cells to send signals to the brain.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Sacculus
- Wikipedia's article - Sacculus
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