Melanin in the Human Inner Ears

Abstract

Melanocytes in the human membranous labyrinth were studied by light microscopy. The melanocytes were distributed in the stria vascularis, modiolus, subepithelial tissues of the endolymphatic sac and dark cell areas of the utricle and ampullae. The stria vascularis, endolymphatic sac and dark cells are known to have active secretory or absorptive functions. In addition, melanocytes were seen to closely surround the capillaries and small blood vessels. These findings suggest that melanocytes can influence inner ear functions.