Which of the following receptor types might function as a nociceptor?

• A. Mechanoreceptor
• B. Pain receptor (nociceptor)
• C. Photoreceptor
• D. Chemoreceptor

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the term 'nociceptor': A nociceptor is a specialized sensory receptor that detects harmful or potentially damaging stimuli, such as extreme temperatures, mechanical damage, or chemical irritants, and sends signals to the brain to perceive pain.
2. Review the receptor types listed in the problem: Mechanoreceptor, Pain receptor (nociceptor), Photoreceptor, and Chemoreceptor. Each receptor type is specialized to detect specific stimuli.
3. Mechanoreceptors detect mechanical stimuli such as pressure, vibration, or stretch. They are not directly involved in detecting pain unless the mechanical stimulus is extreme enough to activate nociceptors.
4. Photoreceptors detect light and are responsible for vision. They are not involved in pain detection and do not function as nociceptors.
5. Chemoreceptors detect chemical stimuli, such as changes in pH or the presence of specific molecules. While some chemical stimuli can activate nociceptors, chemoreceptors themselves are not classified as nociceptors. Therefore, the correct receptor type that functions as a nociceptor is the Pain receptor (nociceptor).