Exploring Tactile Epithelial Cells: The Specialized Skin Cells Involved in Light Touch and Pressure Sensation

Tactile Epithelial Cells (Merkel Cells)

attach to sensory nerve endings to form “light touch” receptors

Tactile epithelial cells, also known as Merkel cells, are specialized cells located within the skin’s epidermal layer. They are found in regions of the skin that are highly sensitive to touch, such as the fingertips, lips, and soles of the feet.

Tactile epithelial cells are involved in the sensation of light touch, pressure, and texture discrimination. They do this by forming specialized structures called Merkel discs, which consist of the tactile epithelial cell together with an associated nerve fiber.

When the skin is touched, the tactile epithelial cell within a Merkel disc is deformed, and this mechanical deformation stimulates the associated nerve fiber. This sends a signal to the brain that is interpreted as touch or pressure sensation.

In addition to their role in touch sensation, the function of tactile epithelial cells is thought to have a role in mediating skin growth and development. They are also hypothesized to play a role in the detection of environmental toxins or irritants that may come into contact with the skin.

Overall, tactile epithelial cells are an important component of the skin’s sensory system and provide essential information about our environment and physical interactions with the world around us.

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