Structure and Function of Skin Flashcards
what is the stratum corneum
large flat plate like envelopes filled with cross linked keratin and lipids between cells providing a after barrier. Flattened dead cells that have lost their nuclei.
what is the stratum granulosum?
cells become flattened and contain keratohyalin granules, cells are starting to lose nucleus and cytoplasm
what is stratum spinosum?
Made up of several layers of keratinocytes held together by desmosomes. keratinocytes rich in desmosomes which hold it together
what is stratum basale?
cuboidal/low columnar cells which are mitotically active, constant regeneration of other layers (responsible for populating all other layers of the epidermis). connected to the BM by hemidesmosomes. continually dividing to populate other layers
what is the basement membrane?
a sheet like layer of extracellular matrix proteins
where is the stratum lucidum found
only found in thicker skin eg soles of feet
what is the dermis made up of?
connective tissue; collagen type I, elastin, fibroblasts and ground substance
what does the dermis do?
contains fibroblasts, has an immune role, contains blood vessels and nerves, allows stretch,
what is the dermo- epidermal junction?
attached to epidermis and dermis, assigns cells of the epidermis, serves as a base for reepithelialisation in wound healing and has a barrier function
what is the subcutous/ hypodermis?
provides an energy source, shock absorption and insulation
what are adnexal structures?
hair, nails and glands
what are eccrine glands?
excrete sweat, everywhere on human skin except nails lips ect. most abundant on palms ect
what are apocrine glands?
scent glands, their role is unclear in humans. found in axillae and genitals (modified ear/eyelid/breast)
what are sebaceous glands?
formed from hair follicle, present everywhere apart from palms and soles, produces sebum, they greatly enlarge at puberty in response to androgens
what is the epidermis?
it is made of stratisfied keratinised epithelial cells
what is the dermis?
an example of dense irregular connective tissue
what is the stratum corneum?
first line of defence against the environment. compromised of keratin and helps protect against bacteria and UV damage. helps prevent moisture escape
what is the stratum lucidum?
a thin clear layer which is only present in skin that is commonly damaged eg palms. it is meant to help body withstand friction
what is the stratum granulosum?
it acts as the waterproofing layer and keeps body from loosing water. the types of fats in this layer keep the skin cells attached to each other
what is the stratum spinosum?
also called the prickle cell layer. contains dendritic cells which are part of the immune system and help fight foreign invaders such as germs. enables the epidermis to better withstand abrasion and friction
what is stratum basale?
the deepest layer of the epidermis. the layer where cell division occurs and skin cells are replenished. the cells in this layer produce keratinocytes which produce keratin, protein and fat which help produce vitamin D when exposed to sunlight. this layer also contains melanocytes which produce melanin and colour the skin.
what is the papillary layer?
connects the dermis and the epidermis. contains capillaries that bring nutrients to the skin to increase or decrease bloodflow and regulate temp. contains sensory neurons. the layer of skin that creates fingerprints.
what is the reticular layer?
the deepest level of the dermis. it is a thick layer composed of dense connective tissue. it contains hair follicles sweat glands and sebaceous glands. main functions are strengthening the skin and providing elasticity
what is responsible for the synthesis of collagen?
fibroblasts
what are the 3 phases of wound healing?
inflammatory, proliferation, remodelling