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The tectorial membrane is a gelatinous structure within the inner ear that plays a crucial role in hearing. It is located in the cochlear duct, covering the organ of Corti. This acellular membrane extends over the inner sulcus and the reticular lamina.

The longest stereocilia of the hair cells within the organ of Corti make contact with the tectorial membrane. When sound vibrations cause the basilar membrane to move, it creates shearing forces between the reticular lamina and the tectorial membrane. This displacement bends the stereocilia, which in turn stimulates nerve fibers at the base of the hair cells, ultimately leading to the transmission of nerve impulses to the brain for sound interpretation.123

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