Chapter 16.2, Problem 14AYLO

Summary Introduction

To discuss:

Some analgesic neuropeptides and how they affect the sensation of pain.

Introduction:

Structures that are specialized for the detection of stimuli such as pain and heat are referred to as sensory receptors. Such receptors can either be real sense organs or simple nerve endings. A sensory receptor converts energy from one form to another. It is involved in the conversion of various forms of stimulus energy, including sound, light, heat, vibration, and touch, into nerve signals. Pain indicates the discomfort that typically leads to evasive action. It is caused by noxious stimulation and injury in tissues. The nociceptors indicate the pain receptors, which respond to the injuries in tissues and situations that lead to the tissue damage. They occur in the protective tissue called meninges and are responsible for headaches. Nociceptors are tonic receptors since the brain must be aware of the pain all the time.