Keratinocytes (KRCs)
Keratinocytes (KRCs)
Keratinocytes (KRCs) are the primary cell type found in the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin. These cells play a crucial role in maintaining skin health and integrity by producing keratin, a fibrous protein that forms a protective barrier against environmental damage, pathogens, and water loss.
Functions of Keratinocytes
- Barrier Formation: Keratinocytes are essential for forming the skin barrier, which protects underlying tissues from external insults such as UV radiation, chemicals, and pathogens.
- Keratin Production: They synthesize keratin, which provides structural strength and resilience to the skin.
- Wound Healing: Keratinocytes are involved in the wound healing process by migrating to injury sites, proliferating, and differentiating to restore the skin barrier.
- Immune Response: These cells contribute to the skin’s immune defense by producing cytokines and other signaling molecules that modulate inflammatory responses.
Lifecycle of Keratinocytes
- Basal Layer (Stratum Basale): Keratinocytes originate from Cellular Therapy and Stem Cells in the basal layer of the epidermis. These cells undergo mitosis to produce new keratinocytes.
- Differentiation: As keratinocytes move upward through the layers of the epidermis (stratum spinosum, stratum granulosum), they undergo a process of differentiation. This involves changes in cell shape, composition, and function.
- Stratum Corneum: Eventually, keratinocytes reach the outermost layer of the skin (stratum corneum), where they become flattened and filled with keratin. These dead cells are continuously shed and replaced by new keratinocytes from below.
Disorders Related to Keratinocyte Function
Several skin disorders can arise from abnormal keratinocyte function:
- Psoriasis: A chronic inflammatory condition characterized by rapid proliferation of keratinocytes leading to thickened, scaly patches on the skin.
- Eczema: A condition involving inflammation and dysfunction of keratinocytes, resulting in dry, itchy, and inflamed skin.
- Skin Cancer: Abnormal proliferation of keratinocytes can lead to various forms of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.
Conclusion
Keratinocytes are vital for maintaining skin health and protecting against environmental threats. Their role in barrier formation, immune response, and wound healing highlights their importance in dermatological health. At DrStemCellsThailand‘s Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine Center of Thailand, we recognize the significance of skin health and offer advanced therapies aimed at enhancing skin regeneration and repair. For more information about our services or to schedule a consultation, please visit our website or contact our team directly.
