Which dermal sensory structures are responsible for sensing deep pressure in the skin?

• A. Merkel cells
• B. Free nerve endings
• C. Meissner's corpuscles
• D. Pacinian corpuscles

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the function of dermal sensory structures: Dermal sensory structures are specialized receptors in the skin that detect various stimuli, such as pressure, temperature, and pain. Each type of receptor is adapted to sense specific stimuli.
2. Review the role of Pacinian corpuscles: Pacinian corpuscles are large, onion-shaped sensory structures located deep in the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. They are specifically designed to detect deep pressure and vibration due to their layered structure.
3. Differentiate Pacinian corpuscles from other sensory structures: Compare Pacinian corpuscles with other receptors like Merkel cells (responsible for light touch), free nerve endings (responsible for pain and temperature), and Meissner's corpuscles (responsible for light touch and texture). This helps clarify why Pacinian corpuscles are suited for sensing deep pressure.
4. Locate Pacinian corpuscles in the skin: Pacinian corpuscles are found deeper in the dermis or hypodermis, which aligns with their function of detecting deep pressure rather than surface-level stimuli.
5. Conclude why Pacinian corpuscles are the correct answer: Based on their structure, location, and function, Pacinian corpuscles are the sensory structures responsible for sensing deep pressure in the skin.