Which of the following is a network of sensory nerves that surrounds base of hair follicle so we can feel hair movement?
A cutaneous plexus
B subpapillary plexus
C root hair plexus
D tactile cells
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is C) Root hair plexus.
Explanation:
The root hair plexus is a network of sensory nerve fibers that surrounds the base of hair follicles in the skin. It is responsible for detecting movement of the hair, such as when the hair is bent or displaced. This sensory structure allows us to feel the slightest touch or movement of hair on the skin’s surface. The root hair plexus is especially sensitive, enabling us to perceive very fine tactile stimuli, which are often imperceptible to other parts of the skin.
The root hair plexus is part of the somatosensory system, specifically involved in mechanoreception, which is the detection of mechanical changes like pressure, vibration, or movement. When the hair follicle is moved—either by a breeze, a touch, or another stimulus—the sensory nerve fibers in the root hair plexus transmit the signal to the brain, which interprets the movement as a sensation.
Here is why the other options are not correct:
- A) Cutaneous plexus: This refers to a network of blood vessels and nerves found deeper in the dermis, but it is primarily involved in regulating blood flow and providing general sensory information rather than detecting fine hair movement.
- B) Subpapillary plexus: The subpapillary plexus is another network of blood vessels located in the dermal papillae, providing nutrients to the skin. It is not involved in detecting hair movement.
- D) Tactile cells: Also known as Merkel cells, these are specialized cells in the epidermis that detect light touch and pressure. While they contribute to tactile sensation, they are not responsible for detecting hair movement.
In summary, the root hair plexus plays a crucial role in our ability to sense the movement of hair on the skin, contributing to our tactile awareness.