Which specialized receptor is found in the epidermal-dermal junction contributing to tactile sensation?

• A. Rod cells
• B. Cochlear hair cells
• C. Merkel cells
• D. Olfactory neurons

Answer: (C)

Merkel cells are specialized mechanoreceptors located at the epidermal-dermal junction, in the basal layer of the epidermis. They form Merkel cell–neurite complexes with nearby nerve endings, which enables the skin to detect light touch and fine details like texture and shape. Their strategic position at the junction and their slowly adapting response make them ideal for sensing persistent contact and subtle tactile information, which underlies tactile discrimination.

Rod cells are photoreceptors in the retina, not involved in skin sensation. Cochlear hair cells reside in the inner ear and detect sound, not touch. Olfactory neurons are in the nasal epithelium and detect odors, not tactile stimuli.