Which layer of skin are Merkel cells embedded in?

Merkel cells are specialized sensory cells that are primarily located in the epidermis, which is the outermost layer of the skin. These cells play a crucial role in the sensation of touch and pressure. They are particularly abundant in areas of the skin that are sensitive to tactile stimuli, such as the fingertips and the face.

The epidermis consists of several sublayers, including the stratum basale, where Merkel cells are typically found. These cells interact with nerve endings, forming Merkel discs, which are important for mechanoreception. This positioning in the epidermis allows them to effectively relay information about tactile stimuli to the nervous system.

The other layers of the skin, including the dermis—which contains connective tissue, blood vessels, and other structures—do not harbor Merkel cells in significant numbers. The hypodermis or subcutaneous layer serves as a cushion for the skin and contains fat and connective tissue but is also not a site for Merkel cell embedding. Therefore, the skin layer where Merkel cells are embedded is indeed the epidermis.