Merkel cell
Quick Summary
Merkel cells are specialized cells found in the basal layer of the epidermis, the outermost layer of human skin. They are classified as nonencapsulated corpuscular receptors, meaning they are nerve endings that are not enclosed within a capsule.1
These cells are considered "slowly adapting" mechanoreceptors, which means they respond to specific stimuli, such as touch, and continue to send signals for as long as the stimulus is present. Merkel cells play a role in the sense of touch, contributing to our perception of pressure and texture on the skin's surface.1
Ask Britannica AI about this topic
Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.
- integumentSkin structure
…contains two other cell types: Merkel cells and Langerhans cells. Merkel cells form parts of sensory structures. Langerhans cells are dendritic but unpigmented and are found nearer the skin surface than melanocytes. After a century of question about their purpose, it is now clear that they have a vital immunologic…
Read More…contains two other cell types: Merkel cells and Langerhans cells. Merkel cells form parts of sensory structures. Langerhans cells are dendritic but unpigmented and are found nearer the skin surface than melanocytes. After a century of question about their purpose, it is now clear that they have a vital immunologic…
Read More - human skinCutaneous sense organs
The Merkel cells and Ruffini endings, for example, are “slowly adapting” mechanoreceptors; while the Meissner, Pacinian, and Golgi-Mazzoni corpuscles and the hair follicle receptors are “rapidly adapting” mechanoreceptors.
Read MoreThe Merkel cells and Ruffini endings, for example, are “slowly adapting” mechanoreceptors; while the Meissner, Pacinian, and Golgi-Mazzoni corpuscles and the hair follicle receptors are “rapidly adapting” mechanoreceptors.
Read More