tunnel of Corti

anatomy

Also known as: arch of Corti

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July 14, 2026

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The organ of Corti is a complex neuroepithelium within the cochlea of the inner ear, named after anatomist Alfonso Corti. It contains sensory hair cells responsible for converting sound vibrations into nerve impulses. The organ of Corti features a prominent arch, or tunnel, formed by pillar cells, which separates the inner and outer hair cells. These hair cells, topped with stereocilia, are crucial for hearing. Nerve fibers originating from these cells transmit auditory information to the brain via the cochlear nerve. The tunnel of Corti itself is a space within this structure, filled with fluid, where nerve fibers cross to innervate the outer hair cells.12

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human ear
Organ of Corti
…Corti is the arch, or tunnel, of Corti, formed by two rows of pillar cells, or rods. The pillar cells furnish the major support of this structure. They separate a single row of larger, pear-shaped inner hair cells from three or more rows of smaller, cylindrical outer hair cells. The…
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…Corti is the arch, or tunnel, of Corti, formed by two rows of pillar cells, or rods. The pillar cells furnish the major support of this structure. They separate a single row of larger, pear-shaped inner hair cells from three or more rows of smaller, cylindrical outer hair cells. The…
Read More