title: A Bast-like valve in the pigeon?
abstract: The first description of the presence of a utriculo-endolymphatic valve in human fetuses was given by Bast in 1928. Since then this valve-like structure is called Bast's valve. Its exact function has not yet been established. The general opinion is that it has a protective function by having the possibility to separate the superior endolymphatic compartments of the labyrinth from the inferior compartment. Phylogenetically seen birds are the first vertebrates with a cochlear duct and a distinct inferior and superior part of the labyrinth. A structure in the pigeon inner ear, resembling Bast's valve in mammals, is described.
authors.affiliation: Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Medical Center Groningen, P.O. Box 30001, 9700 RB, Groningen, The Netherlands. r.hofman@kno.umcg.nl
authors.forename: Rutger
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Hofman
authors.forename: J M
authors.initials: JM
authors.lastname: Segenhout
authors.forename: H P
authors.initials: HP
authors.lastname: Wit
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D010856:Columbidae / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D004711:Endolymphatic Duct / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D012444:Saccule and Utricle / Q000033:anatomy & histology*