Thermoreceptors
Thermoreceptors
Thermoreceptors (/θɜːrmoʊrɪˈsɛptərz/; from the Greek words θερμός (thermos), meaning 'heat', and αἴσθησις (aisthēsis), meaning 'sensation') are a type of sensory receptor that are capable of detecting changes in temperature. They are found in the skin, deep tissues, and various internal organs of humans and other animals.
Function
Thermoreceptors are responsible for the sensation of temperature. They are divided into two types: cold receptors and heat receptors. Cold receptors are activated by a decrease in temperature, while heat receptors are activated by an increase in temperature. The information detected by these receptors is sent to the brain through the nervous system, allowing the body to respond appropriately to changes in environmental and body temperature.
Location
Thermoreceptors are located in various parts of the body. In the skin, they are found in the epidermis and dermis. They are also present in the hypothalamus, a region of the brain that plays a key role in maintaining the body's internal balance, or homeostasis. Other locations include the spinal cord, liver, and skeletal muscles.
Related Terms
- Nociceptors: These are sensory receptors that respond to potentially damaging stimuli by sending signals to the brain and spinal cord, causing the perception of pain.
- Mechanoreceptors: These are sensory receptors that respond to mechanical pressure or distortion.
- Photoreceptors: These are the cells in the retina of the eye that respond to light.
See Also
References
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Thermoreceptors
- Wikipedia's article - Thermoreceptors
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