Free Nerve Ending (Noun)
Meaning
Microscopic sensory nerve endings in the skin that are not connected to any specific sensory receptor.
Classification
Nouns denoting body parts.
Examples
- The sensation of itch is primarily mediated by free nerve endings that respond to chemicals in the skin.
- Free nerve endings play a key role in detecting pain and temperature, especially in the initial stages of exposure to a stimulus.
- Damage to free nerve endings in the skin can result in reduced sensitivity to certain sensations, including pain and temperature.
- Free nerve endings are found throughout the epidermis, where they can detect a wide range of stimuli, from gentle pressure to extreme heat.
- Research has shown that free nerve endings are responsible for transmitting the sensation of itch and heat from the skin to the brain.