TLDR Cats' hairy skin has different touch receptors connected by myelinated fibers.
The 1968 study by Burgess, Petit, and Warren investigated mechanoreceptors in the hairy skin of cats supplied by myelinated fibers, identifying various types that are crucial for sensory perception of touch. The research enhanced the understanding of mechanoreceptor function and distribution, offering insights into sensory processing in mammals.
660 citations,
December 2011 in “Cell” Different hair follicles in the skin are innervated by unique combinations of mechanosensory neurons, crucial for touch sensation.
[object Object] Meis2 is essential for touch sensation and proper nerve connection to touch receptors in certain skin areas of mice.
2 citations,
October 2023 in “Science advances” Touching hair can activate nearby nerve cells through signals from the hair's outer layer.
32 citations,
February 2019 in “eLife” BMP signaling is essential for the development of touch domes.
106 citations,
February 2014 in “eLife” Lanceolate complexes in mouse hair follicles are essential for touch and depend on specific cells for maintenance and regeneration.