Sensory Receptors in the Dermis: Types & Functions

There are several types of sensory receptors found in the dermis, including:

1. Meissner's corpuscles: These are responsible for sensing fine touch and vibration. They are found in hairless areas of the skin, such as the fingertips, palms, and soles of the feet.

2. Pacinian corpuscles: These sense pressure and vibration. They are found in deeper layers of the skin, especially in areas where there is a lot of movement, such as the joints.

3. Free nerve endings: These are endings of sensory neurons that are not encapsulated or specialized. They respond to a variety of stimuli, including pain, temperature, and itching.

4. Merkel discs: Merkel discs are involved in sensing fine touch and pressure. They are found in glabrous skin, such as the fingertips and palms.

5. Hair follicles: Hair follicles contain sensory receptors that detect movement of the hair shaft. These receptors contribute to our sense of touch.

6. Ruffini corpuscles: These receptors sense skin stretch. They are found in the dermis of hairy skin and are particularly sensitive to stretch in the direction of the hair follicle.