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Ruffini corpuscle

Recommended video: Peripheral mechanoreceptors [18:38]
Histology of the peripheral mechanoreceptors.

Bulbar corpuscles, also known as Ruffini corpuscles or Ruffini endings, are mechanoreceptors found in the reticular dermis and hypodermis of both glabrous and hairy skin, as well as in ligaments. They are slowly adapting mechanoreceptors which respond to stretch and movement and do not transmit discriminative touch stimuli.  

Structurally, a bulbar corpuscle is spindle-shaped and includes a single branching sensory fiber surrounded by a thin capsule containing longitudinally oriented collagen fibers. Tension applied at the ends of the capsule compresses the nerve fiber branches inside, with the resulting nerve impulses being perceived as stretching. 

Terminology English: Ruffini corpuscle
Latin: Corpusculum sensorium fusiforme
Synonyms: Bulbous corpuscle, Ruffini ending
Definition Slowly adapting mechanoreceptor 
Location Dermis and hypodermis of both hairy and glabrous skin
Function Respond to stretch and movement stimuli

Learn more about peripheral mechanoreceptors with this study unit (and article):

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