The UVULA is a small, fleshy extension of the soft palate located at the back of the throat. It is composed of connective tissue and mucous membrane and is suspended from the middle of the soft palate. The UVULA helps to close off the nasopharynx during swallowing and speech. It also plays a role in producing certain sounds, such as the 'guttural R' in French and German. The palate lobe is the portion of the UVULA that hangs down from the soft palate. It is an important part of the anatomy of the throat and helps to regulate airflow and protect the airway from foreign particles.