Cells and Layers of the Epidermis

Vocabulary flashcards defining the types of cells and primary structural layers within the epidermis.

Keratinocytes

The most abundant epidermal cells, tightly connected to each other by desmosomes, whose main function is to produce keratin fibrils.

Keratin

A fibrous protein that gives the epidermis its durability and protective capabilities.

Melanocytes

Spidery black cells that produce the brown-to-black pigment melanin, forming a protective umbrella over cell nuclei in deeper epidermal layers to shield DNA from ultraviolet radiation (UVR).

Melanin

A brown-to-black pigment produced by melanocytes whose production increases when skin is exposed to ultraviolet radiation in sunlight.

Freckles and Moles (nevi)

Areas of the skin where melanin is more concentrated.

Dendritic Cells (Langerhans cells)

Epidermal cells that arise from the bone marrow, migrate to the epidermis, ingest foreign substances, and play a key role in activating the immune response.

Tactile Epithelial Cells

Occasional spiky hemispheres located at the epidermal-dermal junction that form sensitive touch receptors in conjunction with disklike sensory nerve endings.

Thin Skin

Skin covering most of the body, containing an epidermis composed of four layers.

Thick Skin

Skin located on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, which contains a fifth epidermal layer called the stratum lucidum.

Stratum Lucidum

The fifth epidermal layer present in thick skin found on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.