Endolymph

• Perilymph of the scala vestibuli and scala tympani (both are available from the helicotrema in conjunction )
• Endolymph of the scala media

The endolymph ( from Latin lymph lymphatic " clear water " with Greek prefix endo for " inside" ) is necessary for the function of the organ of hearing and of the vestibular system.

The endolymph is potassium-rich liquid which is similar to the intra-cellular liquid. It is made in specialized areas ( stria vascularis ) from the epithelium of the labyrinth, probably from the perilymph. The endolymphatic space is above the Endolymphgang ( endolymphatic duct ) with the Endolymphsack ( endolymphatic sac ) in conjunction. The Endolymphsack lying between two Durablättern located in humans on the dorsal surface of the bony petrous pyramid ( petrous temporal ossis ) in a shallow pit ( Apertura canaliculi vestibuli ). This bag is used for volume regulation in the membranous labyrinth.

Due to the different composition of endolymph and located in the adjacent cavities atrium staircase and scala tympani perilymph of the cochlea, there is a voltage difference between screw flight and atrium stairs or scala tympani. This voltage difference allows the conversion of sound waves into nerve impulses in the organ of Corti.

Movements of the endolymph within the semicircular canals of the vestibular organ are triggered by movements of the head or the body as a whole. This fluid wave triggers a deflection of the cilia of the equilibrium receptors ( ampullae membranaceae, saccular macula of the utricle and ).