Bulbous corpuscle: Difference between revisions
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{{Short description|Sensory receptor in the skin}} | |||
[[File:Ruffini_Corpuscle_by_Angelo_Ruffini.jpg|Ruffini corpuscle by Angelo Ruffini|thumb|left]] | |||
The '''bulbous corpuscle''', also known as the '''Ruffini ending''', is a type of [[sensory receptor]] found in the [[skin]] and other tissues. It is primarily responsible for detecting [[sustained pressure]] and [[skin stretch]], contributing to the sensation of [[proprioception]] and [[kinesthesia]]. | |||
The | |||
==Structure | ==Structure== | ||
The bulbous corpuscle is a spindle-shaped receptor located in the deeper layers of the skin, such as the [[dermis]] and [[subcutaneous tissue]]. It consists of a network of nerve endings intertwined with [[collagen]] fibers, which are encapsulated in a fluid-filled capsule. This structure allows the corpuscle to respond to mechanical deformation of the skin. | |||
[[File:Blausen_0807_Skin_RuffiniCorpuscle.png|Diagram of Ruffini corpuscle in the skin|thumb|right]] | |||
==Function== | |||
Bulbous corpuscles are classified as [[mechanoreceptors]], which are sensitive to mechanical changes in the environment. They are particularly responsive to sustained pressure and skin stretch, making them essential for detecting [[grip]] and [[finger position]]. This function is crucial for tasks that require fine motor skills and manipulation of objects. | |||
==Location== | |||
These receptors are distributed throughout the body, with a higher concentration in areas such as the [[fingertips]], [[soles of the feet]], and the [[oral mucosa]]. They are also found in the [[joint capsules]], where they contribute to the sense of joint position and movement. | |||
==Role in Proprioception== | |||
Proprioception is the body's ability to perceive its own position in space. Bulbous corpuscles play a significant role in this process by providing feedback on the position and movement of the skin and joints. This information is integrated with input from other sensory receptors to maintain balance and coordination. | |||
[[File:Gray937.png|Gray's Anatomy illustration of Ruffini corpuscle|thumb|left]] | |||
==Clinical Significance== | ==Clinical Significance== | ||
Damage or | Damage or dysfunction of bulbous corpuscles can lead to impaired proprioception and difficulties with tasks that require precise movements. Conditions such as [[peripheral neuropathy]] can affect these receptors, leading to a loss of sensation and coordination. | ||
== | ==History== | ||
The bulbous corpuscle was first described by the Italian anatomist [[Angelo Ruffini]] in the early 20th century. His work laid the foundation for understanding the role of these receptors in the sensory system. | |||
[[ | ==Related pages== | ||
[[ | * [[Mechanoreceptor]] | ||
[[ | * [[Proprioception]] | ||
* [[Sensory system]] | |||
* [[Peripheral neuropathy]] | |||
[[Category:Sensory receptors]] | |||
[[Category:Skin anatomy]] | |||
[[Category:Neurophysiology]] | |||
Latest revision as of 18:48, 23 March 2025
Sensory receptor in the skin
The bulbous corpuscle, also known as the Ruffini ending, is a type of sensory receptor found in the skin and other tissues. It is primarily responsible for detecting sustained pressure and skin stretch, contributing to the sensation of proprioception and kinesthesia.
Structure[edit]
The bulbous corpuscle is a spindle-shaped receptor located in the deeper layers of the skin, such as the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. It consists of a network of nerve endings intertwined with collagen fibers, which are encapsulated in a fluid-filled capsule. This structure allows the corpuscle to respond to mechanical deformation of the skin.
Function[edit]
Bulbous corpuscles are classified as mechanoreceptors, which are sensitive to mechanical changes in the environment. They are particularly responsive to sustained pressure and skin stretch, making them essential for detecting grip and finger position. This function is crucial for tasks that require fine motor skills and manipulation of objects.
Location[edit]
These receptors are distributed throughout the body, with a higher concentration in areas such as the fingertips, soles of the feet, and the oral mucosa. They are also found in the joint capsules, where they contribute to the sense of joint position and movement.
Role in Proprioception[edit]
Proprioception is the body's ability to perceive its own position in space. Bulbous corpuscles play a significant role in this process by providing feedback on the position and movement of the skin and joints. This information is integrated with input from other sensory receptors to maintain balance and coordination.
Clinical Significance[edit]
Damage or dysfunction of bulbous corpuscles can lead to impaired proprioception and difficulties with tasks that require precise movements. Conditions such as peripheral neuropathy can affect these receptors, leading to a loss of sensation and coordination.
History[edit]
The bulbous corpuscle was first described by the Italian anatomist Angelo Ruffini in the early 20th century. His work laid the foundation for understanding the role of these receptors in the sensory system.
