Representation of modality in cutaneous sensibility

Morphologically identical nerve endings subserve more than one sensory modality. Two possible explanations are: such endings are functionally different, responding to one type of physical excitation only, or such endings are capable of responding to more than one type of physical stimulus, but central mechanisms discriminate between different stimuli. A simple network is described to illustrate how thermal receptors could discriminate between thermal and mechanical stimuli. This research was supported in part by the United States Air Force Office of Scientific Research of the Air Research and Development Command under contract No. AF 18(600)-1454. Reproduction in whole or in part is permitted for any purpose of the United States Government.