Stem Cell Microenvironments and Beyond

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In this chapter, the latest research regarding the maculae flavae of the human
vocal fold as a stem cell microenvironment are summarized.

9.2 Maculae Flavae in the Human Adult Vocal Fold

The vibratory portion (membranous portion) of the human vocal fold is connected
to the thyroid cartilage anteriorly via the intervening anterior macula flava and ante-
rior commissure tendon. Posteriorly, it is joined to the vocal process of the arytenoid
cartilage via the intervening posterior macula flava (Figs. 9.1 and 9.2). The vocal
ligament runs between the anterior and posterior maculae flavae.

thyroid cartilage

anterior commissure tendon

anterior macula flava

Reinke’s space

vocal ligament

posterior macula flava

elastic cartilage portion

of the vocal process

hyaline cartilage portion

of the vocal process

Fig. 9.1 Human adult
vocal fold and maculae
flavae

thyroid cartilage

anterior commissure tendon

anterior macula flava

vocal ligament

Reinke’s space

posterior macula flava

vocal process of

arytenoid cartilage

Fig. 9.2 Transverse
section of human adult
vocal fold (Elastica van
Gieson stain)

9 The Macula Flava of the Human Vocal Fold as a Stem Cell Microenvironment