Which structure is responsible for detecting deep pressure and vibration in the skin?

The structure that detects deep pressure and vibration in the skin is the Pacinian corpuscles. These specialized sensory receptors are located deep within the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. They are also known as lamellated corpuscles due to their layered structure, which enables them to respond effectively to rapid changes in pressure and high-frequency vibrations.

When pressure is applied to the skin, Pacinian corpuscles undergo deformation, leading to the generation of nerve impulses that are transmitted to the brain. This process allows individuals to perceive sensations associated with deep pressure and vibrations, such as the feeling of a massage or the vibration from a phone.

Other structures in the skin serve different sensory functions; for example, Merkel cells are involved in detecting light touch and texture, while Ruffini endings sense skin stretch and sustained pressure. Nociceptors, on the other hand, are responsible for detecting painful stimuli. Understanding the specific roles of these various sensory receptors helps clarify how the integumentary system contributes to our overall sensory experience.