Skin Cell Heterogeneity in Development, Wound Healing, and Cancer

The document discusses the complexity of skin structure, emphasizing the variety of cell types in the epidermis and dermis, and the crucial interactions between these layers for skin development, maintenance, and healing. It acknowledges the identification of multiple stem cell populations in the epidermis, each with specific locations and roles, and notes the newly recognized heterogeneity among dermal mesenchymal cells. The article highlights recent discoveries about how these diverse cell populations are preserved and regulated during skin development, normal function, and in response to injury. It underscores the significance of the local cellular environment, or niche, in influencing the plasticity of these cells. Additionally, the document mentions new findings on how these mechanisms affect wound healing and the progression of cancer.