The Merkel Cell

Download or read book The Merkel Cell written by Klaus Baumann and published by Springer Science & Business Media. This book was released on 2013-03-09 with total page 252 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Since their first description in 1875, Merkel cells have remained an elusive cell type. Their origin as well as their classification as mechanoreceptors have been a matter of controversy and intense discussion. The peptidergic granules in these cells are suggestive of neuroendocrine functions, but their discovery has raised additional questions regarding Merkel cell function. Essential aspects of structure, development and function of normal Merkel cells and Merkel cell carcinoma are presented in short chapters, providing concise and up-to date information on this fascinating cell type.