STRATUM SPINOSUM Meaning and
Definition
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Stratum spinosum, also known as the "prickle cell layer," is a specific layer of cells found in the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin. It lies just above the stratum basale and beneath the stratum granulosum. The stratum spinosum is primarily composed of keratinocytes, which are the most abundant type of cells in the epidermis.
The cells in the stratum spinosum are characterized by their spiny appearance, hence the name "spinosum." These spines are formed by an intricate network of protein filaments that connect adjacent keratinocytes, providing structural support and stability to the epidermis.
The stratum spinosum plays a vital role in maintaining the skin's barrier function. The keratinocytes in this layer are responsible for producing keratin, a tough fibrous protein that strengthens the skin and protects it from external damage. Additionally, the stratum spinosum is involved in cellular communication and immune responses in the epidermis.
This layer is also important for cell turnover and renewal. New cells are constantly produced in the stratum basale and pushed upwards towards the stratum spinosum. As they migrate, they differentiate and undergo cellular changes, eventually becoming fully mature keratinocytes in the stratum spinosum.
Overall, the stratum spinosum is an essential component of the epidermis that ensures the skin's integrity, strength, and protection from various environmental stressors.
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Prickle-cell layer, spinous layer, so called because of the cellular fibrils or intercellular bridges of the cells of this layer; s. mucosum, s. germinativum.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for STRATUM SPINOSUM
- atratum spinosum
- ztratum spinosum
- xtratum spinosum
- dtratum spinosum
- etratum spinosum
- wtratum spinosum
- srratum spinosum
- sfratum spinosum
- sgratum spinosum
- syratum spinosum
- s6ratum spinosum
- s5ratum spinosum
- steatum spinosum
- stdatum spinosum
- stfatum spinosum
- sttatum spinosum
- st5atum spinosum
- st4atum spinosum
- strztum spinosum
- strstum spinosum
Etymology of STRATUM SPINOSUM
The term "Stratum spinosum" is derived from Latin.
- "Stratum" means "layer" or "sheet" in Latin.
- "spinosum" is the neuter form of "spinosus", which means "thorny" or "spiny" in Latin.
Therefore, "Stratum spinosum" can be translated as the "spiny layer" or "thorny layer", referring to the appearance of cells in this particular layer of the skin.
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