Mechanoreceptors

Mechanoreceptors (/mɛkənoʊrɪˈsɛptərz/; from the Greek mechane meaning "machine" and receptor meaning "receiver") are specialized sensory receptors that respond to mechanical pressure or distortion. They play a crucial role in the sense of touch and body position, also known as proprioception.

Etymology

The term "mechanoreceptor" is derived from the Greek words mechane, which means "machine", and receptor, which means "receiver". This term accurately describes the function of these receptors, as they receive and interpret mechanical pressure and distortion.

Types of Mechanoreceptors

There are four main types of mechanoreceptors, each with a unique function and location:

Merkel cells - These are slow-adapting, unmyelinated mechanoreceptors found in the skin and hair follicles. They are responsible for the perception of pressure and texture.
Meissner's corpuscles - These are rapidly adapting, low-threshold mechanoreceptors located in the dermis of the skin. They are responsible for the perception of light touch and vibration.
Pacinian corpuscles - These are rapidly adapting, high-threshold mechanoreceptors found deep in the skin, as well as in certain internal tissues. They are responsible for the perception of deep pressure and high-frequency vibration.
Ruffini endings - These are slow-adapting mechanoreceptors found in the skin, fascia, and joint capsules. They are responsible for the perception of skin stretch and joint angle change.

Function

Mechanoreceptors function by converting mechanical pressure or distortion into electrical signals, which are then transmitted to the brain for interpretation. This process, known as mechanotransduction, allows us to perceive touch, pressure, vibration, and body position.

Related Terms

Nociceptors - These are sensory receptors that respond to potentially damaging stimuli by sending signals to the brain, resulting in the perception of pain.
Thermoreceptors - These are sensory receptors that respond to changes in temperature.
Photoreceptors - These are sensory receptors that respond to light, allowing for vision.
Chemoreceptors - These are sensory receptors that respond to chemical changes, such as changes in the concentration of certain substances in the body.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Mechanoreceptors
Wikipedia's article - Mechanoreceptors

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Mechanoreceptors