Merkel nerve ending

Merkel nerve endings or Merkel cells are mechanoreceptors, a type of sensory receptor, that are found in the skin and hair follicles of mammals. They are named after the German anatomist Friedrich Sigmund Merkel who first described them in 1875.

Etymology

The term "Merkel" comes from Friedrich Sigmund Merkel, a German anatomist who first described these cells in 1875. The term "nerve ending" refers to the termination of a nerve, where it interfaces with other cells or structures.

Structure and Function

Merkel nerve endings are oval-shaped cells that are found in the stratum basale (the deepest layer of the epidermis). They are connected to afferent nerve fibers and are responsible for the sense of light touch and shape and texture recognition. They are slow-adapting, unmyelinated fibers that respond to sustained pressure and touch.

Clinical Significance

Merkel nerve endings are important in the medical field as they play a crucial role in our sense of touch. They are also involved in Merkel cell carcinoma, a rare and aggressive form of skin cancer that begins in these cells.

Related Terms

• Mechanoreceptor: A sensory receptor that responds to mechanical pressure or distortion.
• Epidermis: The outermost layer of the skin.
• Stratum basale: The deepest layer of the epidermis.
• Merkel cell carcinoma: A rare and aggressive form of skin cancer that begins in the Merkel cells.

See Also

• Tactile receptor
• Sensory neuron
• Touch

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