Merkel cells and the mechanosensitivity of normal and regenerating nerves in Xenopus skin

We have investigated some of the physiological, morphological and trophic characteristics of the Merkel cell-neurite complexes in the skin of Xenopus laevis. The Merkel cells, which are specialized sensory cells, occur in groups of 2-4 around the openings of the cutaneous gland ducts. A voltage-controlled mechanical stimulator was used to determine the distribution of mechanosensory thresholds across the skin; an analysis of the results …