What type of sensory information do Meissner's corpuscles detect?

Meissner's corpuscles are specialized mechanoreceptors located in the dermal papillae of the skin, particularly in areas sensitive to light touch, such as the fingertips and palms. They play a crucial role in detecting low-frequency vibrations and the sensation of light touch. This is due to their structure, which is designed to respond quickly to changes in pressure and texture, allowing for fine tactile discrimination.

Their responsiveness to light touch makes them essential for tasks that require precise sensory feedback, such as recognizing textures or shapes through touch. In contrast, other types of sensory receptors in the skin, such as Pacinian corpuscles, are more attuned to deep pressure and high-frequency vibrations, while free nerve endings are responsible for detecting pain and temperature changes. Consequently, Meissner's corpuscles are specifically linked to the perception of light touch and vibration, reinforcing why this is the correct answer.