Morphology of Hensen's cells.

The cochleae of ten guinea-pigs were studied by transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and optical microscopy, using specific techniques for staining fats. The study of Hensen's cells showed the existence of prominent lipid droplets in the apex and the third coil of the cochlea. Similar images were not found in the basal coil. Lipids appear to be expelled into the endolymphatic space. The significance of these findings is discussed with respect to the geometry of the lateral anchorage of the tectorial membrane and to the possibility that Hensen's cells represent a modulation mechanism in the transmission of mechanical energy.