Podcast
Questions and Answers
Which of the following best describes the primary function of the stratum basale?
Which of the following best describes the primary function of the stratum basale?
What are the primary cells that comprise the stratum basale?
What are the primary cells that comprise the stratum basale?
What is the mechanism by which melanin protects keratinocytes from UV radiation?
What is the mechanism by which melanin protects keratinocytes from UV radiation?
How does the distribution of melanin differ between light-skinned and dark-skinned individuals within the epidermis?
How does the distribution of melanin differ between light-skinned and dark-skinned individuals within the epidermis?
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What is the role of Merkel cells, found in the stratum basale?
What is the role of Merkel cells, found in the stratum basale?
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What triggers melanocytes to increase melanin production and transfer it to keratinocytes?
What triggers melanocytes to increase melanin production and transfer it to keratinocytes?
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Besides pigmentation, what other significant function do melanocytes perform in response to UV radiation?
Besides pigmentation, what other significant function do melanocytes perform in response to UV radiation?
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Which statement accurately describes the number of melanocytes in different skin tones?
Which statement accurately describes the number of melanocytes in different skin tones?
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Flashcards
Stratum Basale
Stratum Basale
The deepest layer of the epidermis, responsible for cell division and regeneration.
Stratum Germinativum
Stratum Germinativum
Also known as the stratum germinativum, this layer is composed of a single row of stem cells, primarily keratinocytes.
Keratinocytes
Keratinocytes
These are the most common cells in the stratum basale, responsible for producing keratin, a protein that forms the main component of skin.
Tactile Epithelial Cells (Merkel Cells)
Tactile Epithelial Cells (Merkel Cells)
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Melanocytes
Melanocytes
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Melanin
Melanin
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Suntanning
Suntanning
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Melanocyte Signaling Molecules
Melanocyte Signaling Molecules
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Study Notes
Stratum Basale
- Location and Attachment: Deepest epidermal layer, firmly attached to the dermis along a wavy borderline.
- Structure: Single layer of cells, primarily stem cells known as keratinocytes.
- Cellular Activity: Rapid cell division; many mitotic nuclei are present.
- Specialised Cells: Contains tactile epithelial cells (Merkel cells) and melanocytes.
- Merkel Cells: Sparsely distributed, associated with sensory nerve endings; touch receptors.
- Melanocytes: Spider-shaped cells, responsible for producing melanin.
- Melanin Production: Melanin produced in granules, then transferred to keratinocytes via cell processes (spider legs).
- Melanin's Function: Protects keratinocyte nuclei from UV radiation damage.
- UV Protection Mechanism: Melanin clusters on the superficial side of keratinocytes, shielding nuclei from UV rays.
Melanin Differences by Skin Tone
- Distribution in Keratinocytes: In light-skinned individuals the melanin produced by melanocytes is digested by lysosomes in cells above the basal layer. In dark-skinned individuals, melanin remains in keratinocytes throughout the epidermis.
- Melanocyte Quantities: Dark skin has the same number of melanocytes as light skin. The difference lies in the quantity/granules/concentration of melanin.
- UV Response: In most skin tones, increased UV radiation causes an increase in melanin production and transfer to keratinocytes resulting in tanning.
- Additional Roles for Melanocytes: Secrete signaling molecules in response to UV radiation which affect the skin's immune response. These molecules also influence the inflammatory response and likely other regulatory functions.
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Description
Explore the crucial features of the stratum basale, the deepest layer of epidermis responsible for skin health. Learn about the specialized cells like keratinocytes, Merkel cells, and melanocytes, as well as the role of melanin in protecting against UV radiation. Understand how melanin distribution varies with skin tone.