Merkel cells are large oval cells found in the skin of vertebrates. They are associated with the sense of touch, and are responsible for the highly malignant skin tumor known as Merkel cell carcinoma.

History

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They were named after the outstanding 19th century anatomist Friedrich Sigmund Merkel who was the first to fully describe them in 1875.

Location

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Merkel cells are found in the in the skin and some parts of the mucosa germinativum of all vertebrates. In mammalian skin they are found in the basal layer of the epidermis, and measure 10 – 15 µm across. Most often they are associated with sensory nerve endings, when they are known as Merkel nerve endings.

Function

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F.S. Merkel referred to them as Tastzellen or "touch cells", although their function has been disputed ever since.

External links

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Anatomy

Merkel-Zelle | Disque de Merkel