Name the 7 layers of the skin:
Stratum corneum Stratum granulosum Stratum spinosum Stratum basale Basement membrane Dermis Hypodermis
Describe epidermis formation:
Cells migrate up layers, differentiating before they reach stratum corneum where are lost; changing morphology from basale, spinosum (have spines) and then to granulosum (have keratin granules) - needed to create barrier function of skin (using keratin protein)
What do melanocytes do?
Sit on Basement membrane w/dendritic projections.
Deposit melanin to protect DNA/nuclei of keratinocytes from radiation.
What stimulates Melanocytes to produce melanin?
Paracrine action of Melanocyte stimulating hormone from keratinocytes.
What are langerhans cells in the skin?
Antigen presenting cells in epidermis