Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 6, 2026

Combined Recording of Mechanically Stimulated Afferent Output and Nerve Terminal Labelling in Mouse Hair Follicle Lanceolate Endings
Published on: May 7, 2016
Arthropod mechanoreceptive hairs: modeling the directionality of the joint
Hans-Erich Dechant1, Bernhard Hössl, Franz G Rammerstorfer
1Faculty of Life Sciences, Department of Neurobiology and Behavioral Sciences, University of Vienna, Althanstr.14, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
Abstract:
Stimulus transformation in arthropod mechanoreceptive hairs is dominated by the mechanical properties of both the hair shaft and the hair's articulation. Here a mathematical model of the hair's articulation is developed based on simple relationships relevant for every anisotropic articulation. The mechanical behavior regarding deflection under load of a variety of hairs can be described quantitatively by using only two (in the case of double symmetric characteristics) or four parameters (in the case of only one symmetry): (1) joint stiffness S p in the preferred direction of deflection, (2) joint stiffness St in a plane transversal to the preferred direction, and (3, 4) the values of stiffness S for opposite directions of deflection. The applicability of the model was tested by measuring these stiffnesses S of spider tactile hair joints by deflecting the hairs statically in different directions. For comparison, data in the literature on insect and spider hairs sensitive to air flow were analyzed. The equation presented describes the directional characteristics of a wide range of structurally different cuticular hairs. It can also be used as a mathematical description of the joint mechanics when modeling the mechanics of hairs, for instance, by applying methods such as Finite Element Analysis.
Related Concept Videos
Functional Classification of Joints
The functional classification of joints is determined by the amount of mobility between the adjacent bones. Joints are functionally classified as a synarthrosis or immobile joint, an amphiarthrosis or slightly moveable joint, or as a diarthrosis, a freely moveable joint. Fibrous and cartilaginous joints can be functionally classified as either synarthroses or amphiarthroses, whereas all synovial joints are classified as diarthroses.
Synarthrosis
An immobile...
Joints
Structural joint classifications are based on the material that makes up the joint as well as whether or not the joint contains a space between the bones. Joints are structurally classified as fibrous, cartilaginous, or synovial.
Fibrous Joints Are Immovable
The bones of a...
Hair Cells
Development of the Limb Synovial Joints
The mesenchymal stem cells differentiate into chondrocytes that form the hyaline cartilage, and later the cartilaginous model of the bone. This model further transforms into a bone. This process is known as endochondral ossification.
During development, the limbs...
Structural Joints: Cartilaginous Joints
There are two types of cartilaginous joints:
Synchondrosis
A synchondrosis ("joined by cartilage") is a cartilaginous joint where bones are connected by hyaline cartilage. Synchondrosis may be temporary or...
Structural Joints: Synovial Joints

