MICROANATOMY

Detailed explanation-1: -Merkel cells are rare epidermal cells whose function in the skin is still debated. These cells localize to highly touch-sensitive areas of vertebrate epithelia, including palatine ridges, touch domes and finger tips.

Detailed explanation-2: -Merkel cells are touch-sensitive cells that transduce touch via Piezo2 channels. The Merkel cell-neurite complex contains two sensory receptor cell types.

Detailed explanation-3: -A special type of cell found right below the epidermis (top layer of skin). These cells are very close to the nerve endings that receive the sensation of touch and may be involved in touch. The cells also contain substances that may act as hormones.

Detailed explanation-4: -[8] Mechanoreceptors respond to physical changes including touch, pressure, vibration, and stretch.

Detailed explanation-5: -In the skin, Merkel cells (blue) detect light touch and transmit those signals to sensory neurons (red), which relay the signals to the brain.