Merkel Cells


Key concept

Merkel cells arise from the keratinocyte lineage and develop into sensory receptors in the mature epidermis. They are the last of the nonkeratinocyte cells to appear in the epidermis. Merkel cells are part of the "diffuse neuroendocrine system" and contain the cytoplasmic "dense core granules" which characterize cells of this type.

One of the more interesting hypotheses regarding their function is that they somehow direct the wiring of the dermis.

Bullet Summary

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