Mechanoreceptor

Mechanoreceptors (/mɛkənoʊrɪˈsɛptər/; from the Greek mechano meaning "mechanical" and receptor meaning "receiver") are a type of sensory receptor that respond to mechanical pressure or distortion. They play a crucial role in the sensory system, allowing organisms to perceive touch, pressure, vibration, proprioception, and hearing.

Etymology

The term "mechanoreceptor" is derived from the Greek words mechano, which means "mechanical", and receptor, which refers to a structure in the body that can receive specific stimuli. The term was first used in the late 19th century to describe the sensory receptors that respond to mechanical pressure or distortion.

Types of Mechanoreceptors

There are four main types of mechanoreceptors, each with a unique structure and function:

Pacinian corpuscles - These are rapidly adapting, deep cutaneous mechanoreceptors that respond to vibration and pressure.
Meissner's corpuscles - These are rapidly adapting, superficial cutaneous mechanoreceptors that respond to light touch.
Merkel cells - These are slowly adapting mechanoreceptors found in the skin and hair follicles. They respond to pressure and texture.
Ruffini endings - These are slowly adapting mechanoreceptors found in the skin, fascia, and joint capsules. They respond to skin stretch and joint angle change.

Function

Mechanoreceptors function by converting mechanical stimuli into electrical signals, which are then transmitted to the central nervous system for processing. This process, known as mechanotransduction, allows organisms to perceive and respond to their physical environment.

Clinical Significance

Damage or disease affecting mechanoreceptors can lead to a variety of sensory disorders, including tactile agnosia, allodynia, and certain types of neuropathy. Understanding the function and pathology of mechanoreceptors is therefore crucial in the diagnosis and treatment of these conditions.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Mechanoreceptor
Wikipedia's article - Mechanoreceptor

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Mechanoreceptor