TLDR The skin is essential for protection, temperature control, and immune defense.
The document provided an overview of the anatomy and physiology of human skin, highlighting its complex structure and diverse functions. The skin consists of a stratified epidermis, a dermis, and a subcutaneous fat layer. The epidermis contains various cell types, including melanocytes, which contribute to skin pigmentation. The skin adnexa, such as glands and pilosebaceous units, play roles in reepithelialization. Hair growth is cyclic and serves protective and sociobehavioral functions, while nails assist in object manipulation and fingertip protection. The dermis is primarily composed of collagen and elastic fibers, contributing to skin strength and elasticity. Subcutaneous tissue acts as an energy reserve and endocrine organ. Overall, the skin is vital for thermoregulation, immune response, and UV protection.
44 citations
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July 2020 in “Stem Cell Research & Therapy” Epidermal stem cells show promise for skin repair and regeneration.
14 citations
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June 2017 in “Immunity” Special immune cells called Treg cells are important for maintaining and regenerating hair by activating a specific growth signal in hair stem cells.
610 citations
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April 2014 in “Nature Reviews Immunology” The document concludes that understanding how the skin's immune system and inflammation work is complex and requires more research to improve treatments for skin diseases.
70 citations
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January 2014 in “International review of cell and molecular biology” Keratin proteins are crucial for healthy skin, but mutations can cause skin disorders with no effective treatments yet.
240 citations
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April 2011 in “Pigment Cell & Melanoma Research” Melanocyte stem cells in hair follicles are key for hair color and could help treat greying and pigment disorders.
1 citations
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January 2009 in “Elsevier eBooks” The document concludes that a deeper understanding of skin aging and photodamage is needed to create better skin treatments.
14 citations
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January 2014 in “Cells Tissues Organs” Ionizing radiation causes irreversible skin damage, with single doses leading to acute injury and hair graying, and fractional doses causing more severe long-term tissue damage.
23 citations
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December 2020 in “Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology” Gene network oscillations inside hair stem cells are key for hair growth regulation and could help treat hair loss.
January 2024 in “Archives of pharmacy practice” The skin is vital for protection, temperature control, fluid balance, immunity, and sensing, with damage affecting daily life and mental health.
January 2016 in “SpringerBriefs in bioengineering” Genetic defects and UV radiation cause skin damage and aging.
56 citations
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February 2012 in “Cell Cycle” MicroRNAs are crucial for controlling skin development and healing by regulating genes.
