What do Pacinian corpuscles respond to?

Pacinian corpuscles are specialized sensory receptors located deep within the skin and in some other tissues, such as joints and fascia. They are primarily responsible for detecting and responding to pressure and vibration stimuli. When pressure is applied to the skin, these corpuscles are activated, sending signals to the nervous system that are interpreted as the sensation of pressure.

These receptors have a unique structure resembling an onion, consisting of numerous layers that allow them to be highly sensitive to changes in pressure. They react quickly to the onset of pressure and also respond to vibrations, making them crucial for our ability to perceive mechanical changes in our environment.

Understanding the role of Pacinian corpuscles helps in recognizing the complexities of sensory input and how different types of mechanoreceptors, including others like Meissner's corpuscles for light touch, contribute to our overall tactile perception.