endbulbs

Endbulbs, also known as end bulbs of Krause, are sensory nerve endings found in the skin and mucous membranes. They are believed to be specialized for detecting temperature, particularly cold. These encapsulated nerve endings are characterized by their bulbous or rounded shape and are innervated by afferent nerve fibers.

Morphologically, endbulbs consist of a coiled termination of a nerve fiber within a connective tissue capsule. While their precise function has been debated, research suggests they play a role in thermoreception, contributing to the sensation of cold. They are distributed throughout the body, with higher concentrations found in areas like the cornea, conjunctiva, and lips.

The exact mechanism by which endbulbs detect cold is still an area of active investigation. However, it is thought that specific ion channels within the nerve terminal are activated by decreasing temperatures, leading to the generation of nerve impulses that are transmitted to the brain for interpretation. Understanding the role of endbulbs is important for comprehending somatosensation, particularly the body's ability to perceive and respond to thermal stimuli.