Kappareseptori

Kappareseptori, also known as Krause end-bulbs, are specialized sensory receptors found in the skin of certain animals, including humans. They are named after the German anatomist Karl Krause, who first described them in 1876. Kappareseptori are located in the dermis layer of the skin and are responsible for detecting touch, pressure, and vibration. They are particularly sensitive to light touch and are often found in areas of the body where fine tactile discrimination is important, such as the fingertips, lips, and tongue.

The structure of kappareseptori consists of a terminal nerve ending that branches into several fine processes, which terminate in a bulb-like structure. This bulb is surrounded by a capsule of connective tissue, which helps to amplify the sensory signals. The nerve fibers that innervate kappareseptori are unmyelinated and have a slow conduction velocity, which contributes to their sensitivity to light touch.

Kappareseptori play a crucial role in various sensory functions, including touch, pressure, and vibration perception. They are also involved in the sensation of itch, as they can be activated by certain itch-inducing substances. Additionally, kappareseptori are thought to be involved in the perception of temperature, although their role in this function is less well understood.

The distribution and density of kappareseptori vary across the body, with the highest density found in areas of the skin that require fine tactile discrimination, such as the fingertips and lips. The number of kappareseptori also decreases with age, which may contribute to the reduced sensitivity to touch and pressure that is often observed in older adults.

In summary, kappareseptori are specialized sensory receptors found in the skin that are responsible for detecting touch, pressure, and vibration. They play a crucial role in various sensory functions and are particularly important in areas of the body where fine tactile discrimination is required.