Thermoreceptor
Thermoreceptor
Thermoreceptors (/θɜːrmoʊrɪˈsɛptər/) are a type of sensory receptor that are capable of detecting changes in temperature. They are found in the skin, certain internal organs, and the hypothalamus in the brain.
Etymology
The term "thermoreceptor" is derived from the Greek words "therme" meaning heat and "receptor" which refers to a structure in the nervous system that receives and transmits information.
Function
Thermoreceptors are responsible for the sensation of temperature. They are categorized into two types: warm receptors, which respond to increased temperature, and cold receptors, which respond to decreased temperature. These receptors send signals to the brain via the nervous system, allowing the body to maintain a stable internal temperature (homeostasis).
Related Terms
- Nociceptor: A sensory receptor for painful stimuli.
- Mechanoreceptor: A sensory receptor that responds to mechanical pressure or distortion.
- Photoreceptor: A type of cell found in the retina that is capable of phototransduction.
- Homeostasis: The state of steady internal, physical, and chemical conditions maintained by living systems.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Thermoreceptor
- Wikipedia's article - Thermoreceptor
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