Pacinian corpuscles are specialized sensory receptors located deep within the skin and in various tissues throughout the body. They are responsible for detecting deep pressure and vibration. These oval-shaped structures consist of layers of connective tissue surrounding a nerve ending, allowing them to respond quickly to changes in pressure. When pressure is applied, the layers of the Pacinian corpuscles compress, triggering the nerve endings to send signals to the brain. This helps the body perceive sensations like touch and vibration, playing a crucial role in our ability to interact with the environment.