lämpöreseptorit

Lämpöreseptorit, also known as thermoreceptors, are sensory receptors that detect temperature changes in the environment or within the body. These specialized nerve endings are responsible for our sense of touch, specifically our ability to perceive warmth and cold.

There are two main types of thermoreceptors: warm receptors and cold receptors. Warm receptors are activated by temperatures above the normal body temperature, while cold receptors are primarily sensitive to temperatures below normal body temperature. Both types respond to a range of temperatures, but their peak sensitivity differs. When stimulated, these receptors send electrical signals along nerve pathways to the brain, where they are interpreted as sensations of warmth or cold.

Thermoreceptors are found in various parts of the body, including the skin, mucous membranes, and internal organs. The density and distribution of thermoreceptors vary across different skin regions, explaining why some areas are more sensitive to temperature changes than others. For example, the face and hands generally have a higher concentration of thermoreceptors than the back.

In addition to external temperature detection, thermoreceptors also play a crucial role in regulating internal body temperature, a process known as thermoregulation. Specialized thermoreceptors in the hypothalamus, a region of the brain, monitor blood temperature and initiate physiological responses, such as sweating or shivering, to maintain a stable internal environment. This dual function allows organisms to adapt to changing thermal conditions and survive.