Detailed model of the different tissues of the tongue in a microscopic perspective

Anatomically, the model shows the following:



A segment showing the tissue of the tongue viewed from the dorsal side (back of the tongue) in normal size. Here you can see i.a. papillae, blood vessels, glands and tongue muscles


A segment showing papilla foliata at 10-20 times normal size. Here you can see i.a. taste buds, glands and nerves


A segment showing a taste bud at 450 times normal size. Here you can see details such as taste buds, cell types (including basal cells and intermediate cells) and nerve fibers


A segment which is a very simple overview of the sensory supply of the tongue by the cranial nerves (5th, 7th, 9th and 10th cranial nerves)

Clinically speaking, the model can be used to understand disorders of the tongue. Examples are fissured tongue, infections and cancer.



The model can also be used to understand issues related to the cranial nerves supplying the tongue, including movement, sensitivity and sense of taste.