Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart2h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

5. Integumentary System

The Epidermis: Cells

Anatomy & Physiology

5. Integumentary System

The Epidermis: Cells

Previous problemNext problem

Struggling with Anatomy & Physiology?

Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video

Multiple Choice

Would you expect to find more keratin in keratinocytes closer to the external surface of the skin (more superficial) or further from the external surface of the skin (deeper)?

Deeper, because it's more important that the skin is water-resistant in deeper areas.

More superficial because skin on the external surface needs to be tougher and more resistant.

Neither, all keratinocytes have approximately the same amount of keratin.

Previous problemNext problem

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the role of keratin in the skin: Keratin is a protein that provides strength and resilience to the skin, making it tougher and more resistant to physical damage and water penetration.

Identify the location of keratinocytes: Keratinocytes are the predominant cell type in the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin. They produce keratin as they move from the deeper layers to the surface.

Consider the function of the skin's surface: The external surface of the skin is exposed to environmental factors such as friction, pathogens, and UV radiation, requiring it to be more durable and protective.

Analyze the distribution of keratin: As keratinocytes migrate towards the surface, they accumulate more keratin, which contributes to the formation of the stratum corneum, the outermost layer that provides a tough barrier.

Conclude based on the physiological process: More keratin is found in keratinocytes closer to the external surface of the skin because these cells need to form a protective barrier against external threats.