Nociceptors
Nociceptors (pronounced: noh-sigh-septors) are a type of sensory neuron that responds to potentially damaging stimuli by sending signals to the spinal cord and brain. This process, known as nociception, is a protective mechanism designed to prevent injury.
Etymology
The term "nociceptor" is derived from the Latin nocere meaning "to harm" and receptor, which refers to a structure in the nervous system that receives specific stimuli.
Function
Nociceptors are found throughout the body, particularly in the skin, joints, and certain internal organs. They are activated by different types of stimuli, including mechanical (such as pressure or cut), thermal (heat or cold), and chemical (such as inflammatory mediators). Once activated, nociceptors send signals through peripheral nerves to the spinal cord, and then to the brain, which interprets these signals as pain.
Types of Nociceptors
There are several types of nociceptors, each responding to different types of stimuli. These include:
- Mechanical nociceptors: Respond to mechanical damage such as cutting or crushing.
- Thermal nociceptors: Respond to temperature changes, specifically heat or cold that can cause damage.
- Polymodal nociceptors: Can respond to multiple types of damaging stimuli.
Related Terms
- Pain: An unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with actual or potential tissue damage.
- Neuron: A nerve cell that is the basic building block of the nervous system.
- Sensory neuron: Nerve cells within the nervous system responsible for converting external stimuli from the organism's environment into internal electrical impulses.
- Nociception: The sensory nervous system's response to certain harmful or potentially harmful stimuli.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Nociceptors
- Wikipedia's article - Nociceptors
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