Toxicological Responses in Keratinocyte Interfollicular Stem Cells

The document discusses how the skin's barrier function is maintained by the regeneration and differentiation of epidermal keratinocyte stem cells. It highlights the exposure of these cells to various toxins, including inorganic arsenic, aryl hydrocarbons like dioxin, and bacterially derived toxins. The study examines the effects of these toxins on keratinocyte stem cells and how they can disrupt the balance between cell division and differentiation. This disruption can lead to skin conditions such as hyperplasia, which is an overgrowth of the epidermis, or hypoplasia, which results in skin ulceration. The document emphasizes the importance of understanding the mechanisms behind these toxicological responses to maintain healthy skin barrier function.