The tactile receptor, also known as a mechanoreceptor, is a type of sensory receptor that detects mechanical changes in the environment. It is found in many different organisms, including humans, and in a variety of forms, such as hair cells, Pacinian corpuscles, and Merkel cells. Tactile receptors can detect a range of mechanical stimuli, from pressure and vibration to texture and even temperature. In this article, we will explore how tactile receptors work, what they are used for, and some of the different types that exist.
Mechanoreception is the process by which organisms detect mechanical stimuli from their environment. In humans, this is primarily accomplished through the sense of touch. Tactile receptors are the primary type of mechanoreceptor in humans and are located in various areas of the body, such as the skin, muscles, joints, and internal organs. These receptors are activated by a variety of mechanical stimuli, including pressure, vibration, texture, and even temperature.
The most common type of tactile receptor is the hair cell, which is located in the inner ear and is responsible for detecting sound. Hair cells are covered in tiny hairs that move when a stimulus is applied, triggering electrical signals in the cells which are then sent to the brain.
Pacinian corpuscles are another type of tactile receptor that are found in the skin and are responsible for detecting pressure and vibration. These receptors consist of a capsule filled with a fluid-filled core, which is surrounded by nerve endings called lamellae. When a stimulus is applied, the lamellae vibrate, sending an electrical signal to the brain.
Merkel cells are the least common type of tactile receptor and are found primarily in the fingertips. They are responsible for sensing texture and consist of a cluster of nerve endings surrounded by an epithelial cell. When a stimulus is applied, the nerve endings send electrical signals to the brain.
Tactile receptors are used by organisms to detect and respond to a variety of mechanical stimuli, allowing them to interact with their environment. In humans, these receptors are used to detect pressure, vibration, texture, and temperature, and are essential for everyday activities such as writing, typing, and walking.
In conclusion, tactile receptors are an important type of mechanoreceptor found in many different organisms, including humans. These receptors are used to detect a range of mechanical stimuli, such as pressure, vibration, texture, and even temperature. They play an essential role in allowing organisms to interact with their environment and are used by humans for everyday activities.
References
Chen, L.-C., & Hsiao, S. S. (2013). Mechanoreceptors: Anatomy and physiology. International journal of molecular sciences, 14(8), 16012–16026. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms140816012
Ramirez, J., & Forrest, D. (2016). Tactile receptors in human skin. Neuroscience, 344, 18–35. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuroscience.2016.06.052
Gandhi, P., & Kaczmarek, L. K. (2012). Role of mechanoreceptors in the somatosensory system. Progress in Neurobiology, 98(2), 179–190. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pneurobio.2012.05.003