Keratinocytes
The most abundant epidermal cells, they function mainly to produce keratin.
Keratinocytes are the most common cell type found in the epidermis, which is the outermost layer of the skin. They are specialized epithelial cells that produce a fibrous protein called keratin, which provides structural support to the skin.
These cells originate in the basal layer of the epidermis and undergo a process of differentiation as they move upwards towards the surface of the skin. During this process, they produce an extensive network of filaments made of keratin, which eventually form a tough, protective barrier on the surface of the skin.
Apart from serving as a structural component, keratinocytes also play a vital role in protecting the skin from environmental damage, such as UV radiation. They achieve this by producing a pigment known as melanin, which helps to absorb harmful UV rays and reduce their impact on the skin.
Moreover, the keratinocytes also act as a primary immune defense system, functioning as the first responders to infectious agents that may enter the skin. They can produce cytokines, chemokines, and other immune molecules that can help to activate other immune cells and defend against invading pathogens.
Overall, keratinocytes are crucial cells in the skin, and they play essential roles in the protection and maintenance of skin health.
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