Cutaneous receptor ()

Cutaneous receptor Overview

Cutaneous receptors are a diverse group of **sensory receptors located in the skin** that detect and transmit information about various external stimuli to the nervous system. They include mechanoreceptors (such as Merkel nerve endings, Meissner’s corpuscles/tactile corpuscles, Ruffini endings/bulbous corpuscles, and Pacinian corpuscles), thermoreceptors for temperature changes, nociceptors for pain and itch sensations, and chemoreceptors for certain chemical stimuli[1][2][3][4]. These receptors are responsible for sensing modalities such as touch, pressure, vibration, temperature changes (heat/cold), and pain. Each type is specialized by structure and function—for example: - **Mechanoreceptors** respond to mechanical deformation like stretch or vibration. - Merkel nerve endings sense sustained touch/pressure. - Meissner’s corpuscles detect light touch/texture. - Ruffini endings sense skin stretch. - Pacinian corpuscles detect deep pressure/high-frequency vibration[1][6]. - **Thermoreceptors** respond to heat or cold[1][2]. - **Nociceptors** signal tissue damage or potential harm as pain[1]. These receptors are not single molecular targets but rather broad classes encompassing multiple distinct proteins/cell types. They play essential roles in somatosensation but are not considered therapeutic targets themselves; instead individual molecular components within these systems may be targeted. Because "Skin receptors" refers collectively to many different molecules rather than a specific protein/receptor entity—and because it is an anatomical/functional grouping rather than a canonical drug target—this entry should be marked as incorrect if used where a specific molecular target is required[1][2].

Mechanism of Action

Biological Functions

Safety Considerations