Stretch receptor
Stretch receptor
A stretch receptor is a type of mechanoreceptor that is sensitive to changes in muscle length and the rate of change in muscle length. These receptors play a crucial role in the proprioceptive system, which is responsible for the body's sense of position and movement.
Pronunciation
- /ˈstrɛtʃ rɪˈsɛptər/
Etymology
The term "stretch receptor" is derived from the English words "stretch," meaning to extend or expand, and "receptor," which refers to a protein molecule that receives chemical signals from outside a cell.
Function
Stretch receptors are found in various parts of the body, including the muscle spindle, which is embedded in the belly of muscles and tendons. When a muscle is stretched, the stretch receptors send signals to the central nervous system (CNS), informing it of the muscle's length and velocity. This information is then used by the CNS to adjust the contraction of muscles and maintain balance and posture.
Related Terms
- Mechanoreceptor: A type of sensory receptor that responds to mechanical pressure or distortion.
- Proprioception: The sense of the relative position of one's own parts of the body and strength of effort being employed in movement.
- Muscle spindle: A sensory receptor located in the muscle that senses its stretch.
- Central nervous system (CNS): The part of the nervous system consisting of the brain and spinal cord.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Stretch receptor
- Wikipedia's article - Stretch receptor
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