Keratinocyte

/kˌɛɹɐtˈɪnəsˌaɪt/

Keratinocyte

a type of skin cell that produces the protein keratin, which is an important component of the epidermis (outermost layer of the skin)

What is a "keratinocyte"?

A keratinocyte is a specialized cell found in the epidermis of the skin. These cells are responsible for producing keratin, a tough fibrous protein that forms the structural framework of the skin, hair, and nails. Keratinocytes undergo a maturation process as they move toward the surface of the skin, eventually forming the outermost layer of dead skin cells called the stratum corneum. These cells help protect the underlying layers of the skin and contribute to the overall strength and integrity of the skin barrier. Additionally, keratinocytes play a role in immune response and contribute to the regeneration of the skin following injury or damage.

Examples

1. Most cells of the epidermis are keratin-producing cells, or keratinocytes.

2. Since nails evolved from claws, both adaptations produce keratinocytes in the same way.

3. These hemidesmosomes adhere keratinocytes of the stratum basale to the second component of this junction, which is called the basal lamina.

4. The distinct epidermal layers represent different stages of keratinocyte differentiation, from their birth to their death.