The pilo-Ruffini complex: a non-sinus hair and associated slowly-adapting mechanoreceptor in primate facial skin

Brain Res. 1978 Feb 24;142(2):197-222. doi: 10.1016/0006-8993(78)90631-5.

Abstract

A spray-type of nerve ending identified as a Ruffini corpuscle closely associated with a non-sinus hair has been defined in terms of its histologic, ultrastructural and physiologic parameters. The hair and its associated mechanoreceptor, termed a pilo-Ruffini complex, responds as a slowly adapting (SA) mechanoreceptor, whereas most non-sinus hair-associated mechanoreceptors are rapidly adapting. Morphologically, the terminal nerve fibers branch repeatedly within a unique connective tissue matrix, and the neurite and associated connective tissue matrix forms a collar around the hair follicle. This receptor, on the basis of its organization, is interpreted as corresponding to the corpuscle or end organ of Ruffini.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Physiological*
  • Animals
  • Evoked Potentials
  • Face
  • Hair* / ultrastructure
  • Haplorhini
  • Macaca mulatta
  • Mechanoreceptors / physiology*
  • Mechanoreceptors / ultrastructure
  • Muscle, Smooth / ultrastructure
  • Neurons / ultrastructure
  • Schwann Cells / ultrastructure
  • Skin / innervation*