Utricle

/jˈuːtɹɪkəl/

[noun]

Utricle

[NOUN]

a small, fluid-filled sac in the inner ear that helps detect changes in head position and linear acceleration

synonyms : utriculus

What is "utricle"?

The utricle is a component of the vestibular system in the inner ear, responsible for detecting changes in head position and linear acceleration. It contains hair cells that are sensitive to the movement of fluid and help transmit signals to the brain to maintain balance and coordinate body movements. The utricle is essential for our sense of spatial orientation and plays a vital role in our ability to navigate and perceive the world around us.

Examples

1. The other organs, the utricle and saccule, works similarly.

2. Right next to the cochlea is the tiny vestibular system, which includes three semicircular canals, and tiny segments called the utricle and saccule, all of which are filled with fluid.

3. And every one of the canals widens at its base into sac-like structures, called the utricle and saccule, which are full of hair cells that sense the motion of the fluid.

4. Two sacs located in the semi-circular canals called the saccule and the utricle contain fluid which tells the brain about any imbalances, which is how we know when we're stood up or lying down.