For a sensory nerve fiber that is connected to a Pacinian corpuscle located on palmar surface of the right hand, the synaptic connection with the subsequent neuron in the corresponding sensory pathway is located in
**Core Concept**
The Pacinian corpuscle is a type of rapidly adapting mechanoreceptor found in the skin, responsible for detecting high-frequency vibrations and pressure. These receptors are innervated by A-beta sensory nerve fibers, which transmit sensory information to the central nervous system.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The synaptic connection with the subsequent neuron in the corresponding sensory pathway is located in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG). The DRG is a cluster of nerve cell bodies located in the posterior root of the spinal nerve, where the sensory nerve fibers synapse with the second-order neurons in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord. This synapse allows for the transmission of sensory information from the periphery to the central nervous system. The A-beta fibers, which innervate the Pacinian corpuscle, terminate in the DRG and make synaptic contact with the second-order neurons.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because the synaptic connection is not located in the spinal cord itself, but rather in the DRG, where the sensory nerve fibers synapse with the second-order neurons.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because the synaptic connection is not located in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord, but rather in the DRG, where the sensory nerve fibers make synaptic contact with the second-order neurons.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The dorsal root ganglion is a critical structure in the transmission of sensory information from the periphery to the central nervous system, and understanding its role is essential for diagnosing and managing various neurological disorders.
**Correct Answer: C. Dorsal root ganglion.**