The Skin Flashcards
What are the functions of the skin?
- synthesise Vit D
- protection from UV light
- barrier to pathogens
- thermoregulation
- control water loss
- waterproofing
What are the 3 main layers of the skin?
Epidermis
Dermis
Subcutaneous tissue (hypodermis)
What are the 5 layers of the epidermis?
S. basale S. spinosum S. granulosum S. lucidum S. corneum
What are corneocytes held together by?
corneodesmosomes
What are corneocytes?
Corneocytes are keratinocytes in their last stage of differentiation.
What happens to keratinocytes in to S. basale?
Keratinocytes in the stratum basale of the epidermis will multiply through cell division and migrate toward the skin surface. During migration keratinocytes will undergo multiple stages of differentiation to finally become corneocytes once they reach the stratum corneum.
How are corneocytes continually eliminated?
through desquamation or through rubbing, skin washing or detergents they are also continually formed through keratinocyte differentiation
How often are keratinocytes renewed?
Every 20-45 days BUT maintains the same thickness
What are the immune properties of keratinocytes?
produce interleukins, interferons and growth factors
How do the keratinocytes differ between then basal and corneum layers?
Basal = K5 and K14 Corneum = K1 and K10
What produces natural moisturising factor in the cells?
Filaggrin derived from pro-filaggrin
What does the NMF do?
helps maintain the skins hydration- keeps water inside the skin
NMF is also important in maintaining what type of environment at the outer surface of the S. corneum?
acid environment
How is the introduction of new cells in the basal layer of the epidermis balanced?
desquamation of mature corneocytes are shed from the surface of the S. corneum
What does desquamation involve?
degradation of the extracellular corner-desmosomes under the action of protease enzymes