Tactile discs, also known as Merkel cells, are specialized mechanoreceptors in the skin that detect light touch and texture, playing a crucial role in the sense of touch. They are located in the epidermis and are closely associated with nerve endings. Langerhans cells, on the other hand, are a type of dendritic cell found in the skin that function primarily in the immune response by capturing and presenting antigens to T cells, thereby helping to protect the body against pathogens. Together, these cells contribute to both sensory perception and immune defense in the skin.
Modified free-nerve endings in the deeper levels of the epidermis are found associated with tactile (Merkel) cells. These receptors are sensitive to light touch and pressure stimuli, providing information about tactile sensations to the brain.
The islets of Langerhans were named after the German pathologist Paul Langerhans, who first described them in 1869. He recognized these clusters of cells in the pancreas that are important for the production of hormones like insulin.
The epidermal layer with the highest concentration of Langerhans' cells is the stratum spinosum. This layer is characterized by its numerous desmosomes, which provide strong intercellular connections, and thick bundles of keratin filaments, contributing to the skin's structural integrity and barrier function. Langerhans' cells play a crucial role in the immune response within the skin.
Articular discs are composed of fibrocartilage, which is a combination of dense connective tissue and cartilage. They have a dense outer layer for strength and a more cartilaginous inner layer for flexibility. These discs are found in joints where they help improve the joint's stability and function.
Insulin is the hormone that is secreted by the beta cells in the islets of Langerhans in the pancreas. It helps regulate blood sugar levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells for energy.
The three types of unencapsulated tactile receptors are free nerve endings, root hair plexuses, and tactile discs. Free nerve endings are found throughout the skin and detect pain and temperature. Root hair plexuses are located around hair follicles and detect hair movement. Tactile discs are found in the deeper layers of the skin and detect light touch and pressure.
islets of Langerhans
tactile (Merkel) discs
Functions as a sensory receptor for touch.
Antennules are for smell. Antenna are tactile.
Modified free-nerve endings in the deeper levels of the epidermis are found associated with tactile (Merkel) cells. These receptors are sensitive to light touch and pressure stimuli, providing information about tactile sensations to the brain.
It is a light touch receptor.
Ryan Langerhans's birth name is Ryan David Langerhans.
Langerhans is a Germanic name.
The main function of the discs is to provide cushion and a sort of filler for the crack between vertebrae.
The Islets of Langerhans is located in the pancreas.
Ryan Langerhans is 6' 3".