Epidermis cells | Location | Derived from | Function |
Keratinocytes (most abundant cells in the epidermis) | All layers of epidermis | Ectoderm | Produce keratin, a protein that provides strength and waterproofing to the skin. |
Langerhans cells (Macrophage / Antigen presenting cell, APC) | Stratum spinosum | Mesoderm | Part of the immune system; they capture and present antigens to T-cells, initiating an immune response. |
Melanocytes | Stratum basale | Neural crest cell | Synthesize melanin- 1. It’s responsible for skin color. 2. Melanin absorbs ultraviolet (UV) radiation, protecting deeper layers of the skin from UV damage. |
Merkel cells | Stratum basale | Ectoderm | Serve as mechanoreceptors, responsible for the sensation of light touch |
Langerhans cells-
1. Birbeck Granules Unique, tennis racket-shaped / rod shaped organelles found in the cytoplasm of Langerhans cells.
2. CD1a and S100 : marker of Langerhans cells