Megan Lacombe

Ms. Naughton
Anatomy
January 4, 2015
1) The main structural features of the epidermis and explain their functional significance (2
major cell types).
Layers of the epidermis are called strata. There are five total possible layers. The top
layer is stratum corneoum where cells are keratinized and dead. The cells are stratified squamous
and it is the top layer. Lack of nutrients because the tissue is avascular and the keratinization of
the cells causes them to die. Stratum lucidum, which is only present in thick skin and is a layer of
clear cells. In stratum granulosum cells are flattened and they do not divide. Keratin begins to be
produced here. Stratum spinosum is the last layer where mitosis occurs. Stratum basale, the base
layer of skin and the deepest. Cells go though mitosis here and one cells moves upward while the
other remains. This is the youngest layer of cells. Two major cells types are melanocytes and
keratinocytes. Melanocytes produce melanin, pigment for skin which protects cells from damage.
Keratinocytes produce keratin which is a tough substance which helps with waterproofing of the
skin. Keratinocytes exist mostly in the basal (my spell check wont let me write it the right way)
layer of skin.

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2) What is the difference between thick and thin skin?

Thick skin has five layers while thin skin has four. Thick skin has the stratum lucidum
layer which is absent in thin skin. Thick skin is found on your palms and the bottom of your feet.
Thin skin is found everywhere else on your body.