Which cells in the epidermis are responsible for the sensation of light touch?

Merkel cells are specialized cells located in the basal layer of the epidermis and are an essential component in the sensation of light touch. They are mechanoreceptors, meaning they respond to mechanical pressure or distortion. When the skin is lightly touched, these cells can detect the stimulus and transmit the sensory information to the nervous system for processing.

Keratinocytes, while they are the predominant cell type in the epidermis and play a crucial role in forming the protective barrier of the skin, do not have the specialized function to detect touch. Melanocytes, which are responsible for the production of melanin and contribute to skin pigmentation, also do not participate in touch sensation. Fibroblasts, on the other hand, are mainly found in the dermis and are involved in the production of collagen and extracellular matrix; they do not directly contribute to sensory functions in the epidermis.