Epidermis Overview

The layers of the epidermis are the different strata that make up the outermost part of the skin.

The cells of the epidermis include keratinocytes, melanocytes, Langerhans cells, and Merkel cells.

Keratinocytes produce keratin, a protein that helps protect the skin and underlying tissues from heat, microbes, and chemicals.

Melanocytes are primarily found in the basal layer (stratum basale) of the epidermis.

Langerhans cells are involved in the immune response by detecting and presenting foreign substances to immune cells.

The stratum corneum acts as a barrier to protect underlying tissues from infection, dehydration, and mechanical stress.

Merkel cells are involved in the sensation of touch by acting as mechanoreceptors in the skin.

Keratinization is the process by which keratinocytes mature, move towards the surface, and become filled with keratin, eventually forming the protective outer layer of the skin.

The stratum basale is the deepest layer of the epidermis, responsible for continuous cell division and production of new keratinocytes.

The epidermis receives nutrients through diffusion from the underlying dermis, as it does not contain blood vessels.