Skin Immunology Flashcards
what factors contribute to the skin as an immunological system
structure (keratin layer), cell types (immune cells and keratinocytes), cytokines, chemokines, antimicrobial peptides, genetics
what is the keratin layer formed by
terminal differentiation of keratinocytes to corneocytes
what are important structural proteins in the keratin layer and epidermis
filaggrin/involucrin/keratin
what is the keratin layer also known as
stratum corneum
what can activate keratinocytes
UV and sensitisers (allergic contact dermatitis)
what do keratinocytes produce
antimicrobial peptides (AMP’s)
what can AMP’s do
directly kill pathogens
what condition is associated with high levels of AMP’s
psoriasis
where are lanerhan cells
epidermis
what type of cells are langerhan cells
dendritic cells
