stratum corneum
Quick Summary
The stratum corneum is the outermost layer of the epidermis in human skin. It is composed of dead, keratin-rich cells called corneocytes, which are embedded in a lipid matrix. This layer is crucial for skin function, acting as a protective barrier against environmental factors like UV radiation, pathogens, and toxins.1
The stratum corneum also plays a vital role in maintaining hydration by preventing water loss from the body. This is achieved through lipid lamellae in the spaces between the corneocytes. The thickness of the stratum corneum varies across the body, being thicker on the soles of the feet and thinner on the eyelids. The outer layers of the stratum corneum are continuously shed, with one layer typically sloughing off daily.21
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epidermis…the dermis, and the external stratum corneum, or horny layer, which is composed of dead, keratin-filled cells that have migrated outward from the basal layer. The melanocytes, responsible for skin colour, are found in the basal cells. The epidermis has no blood supply and depends on diffusion from the dermal…
Read More…the dermis, and the external stratum corneum, or horny layer, which is composed of dead, keratin-filled cells that have migrated outward from the basal layer. The melanocytes, responsible for skin colour, are found in the basal cells. The epidermis has no blood supply and depends on diffusion from the dermal…
Read More- integumentSkin layers
…constitute the horny layer, or stratum corneum. The cell fragments of the stratum corneum are composed largely of keratin, a tough insoluble protein. In most land vertebrates the stratum corneum is shed or molted, either periodically and in large fragments or sheets, as in reptiles, or continuously in small patches…
Read More…constitute the horny layer, or stratum corneum. The cell fragments of the stratum corneum are composed largely of keratin, a tough insoluble protein. In most land vertebrates the stratum corneum is shed or molted, either periodically and in large fragments or sheets, as in reptiles, or continuously in small patches…
Read More - integumentEmbryology and evolution
…subsequently sloughed off as the stratum corneum is formed underneath them.
Read More…subsequently sloughed off as the stratum corneum is formed underneath them.
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