Which cells are associated with sensing pressure and vibration?

Which cells are associated with sensing pressure and vibration?

• A. Ruffini End Bulbs
• B. Merkel Cells
• C. Proprioceptors
• D. Nociceptors

Answer: (B)

Sensing pressure and fine touch relies on specialized mechanoreceptors in the skin that connect with nerve fibers to relay tactile information. Merkel cells are located at the base of the epidermis and form Merkel discs with nearby nerve endings. They respond to steady, light pressure and contribute to high-resolution touch and texture discrimination, so they are the most relevant option for detecting pressure among the choices. Ruffini endings focus more on skin stretch and sustained pressure, proprioceptors monitor body position, and nociceptors detect pain. While vibration is typically sensed by Pacinian corpuscles (not listed here), Merkel cells best fit the pressure aspect in this set.

Sensing pressure and fine touch relies on specialized mechanoreceptors in the skin that connect with nerve fibers to relay tactile information. Merkel cells are located at the base of the epidermis and form Merkel discs with nearby nerve endings. They respond to steady, light pressure and contribute to high-resolution touch and texture discrimination, so they are the most relevant option for detecting pressure among the choices. Ruffini endings focus more on skin stretch and sustained pressure, proprioceptors monitor body position, and nociceptors detect pain. While vibration is typically sensed by Pacinian corpuscles (not listed here), Merkel cells best fit the pressure aspect in this set.