What structure in the skin helps to sense touch?

Merkel cells play a crucial role in the sensation of touch within the skin. These specialized cells are found in the epidermis, particularly in regions that are highly sensitive to touch, such as the fingertips. They are associated with sensory nerve endings and generate signals that convey tactile information to the brain.

When pressure is applied to the skin, Merkel cells detect this mechanical stimulus. They respond to light touch and texture, allowing for fine discrimination of tactile stimuli. This is vital for numerous daily activities that require sensitivity to touch, such as reading Braille or feeling textures.

In contrast, sebaceous glands are involved in producing sebum for lubricating the skin, hair follicles serve a different purpose related to hair growth, and melanocytes are responsible for the production of melanin, which gives skin its color and protects against UV radiation. While all these structures contribute to the overall function of the skin, it is specifically the Merkel cells that are integral for touch sensation.