Britannica AI Icon

crista ampullaris

anatomy
Also known as: crista acustica

Quick Summary

The crista ampullaris is a sensory structure located within the ampullae of the semicircular canals in the inner ear. These semicircular canals are part of the vestibular system, which is responsible for maintaining balance and coordinating head and eye movements.123

The crista ampullaris contains neuroepithelium, composed of supporting cells and sensory hair cells. These hair cells have hairlike cilia that project from their apical ends. A gelatinous structure called the cupula extends from the crista and divides the ampulla. When the head rotates, the inertia of the fluid within the semicircular canals causes the cupula to deflect, stimulating the hair cells. This stimulation sends nerve impulses to the brainstem, providing information about rotational movements.124

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.