Cells of epidermis

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


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