The human vocal cord surface.
The epithelium of the vocal cord from children and adults is analysed with SEM and TEM. Scanning micrographs show that the apical cell membrane is furnished with microvilli and microridges of various patterns. The function of microridges is discussed in relation to the distribution and retention of mucus on the vocal cord.
D000368:Aged; D002462:Cell Membrane / Q000648:ultrastructure; D004848:Epithelium / Q000648:ultrastructure; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008297:Male; D008871:Microvilli / Q000648:ultrastructure; D008875:Middle Aged; D014827:Vocal Cords / Q000648:ultrastructure*