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Ch. 5 The Integumentary System
Martini - Fundamentals of Anatomy & Physiology 11th Edition
Martini, Nath, Bartholomew11th EditionFundamentals of Anatomy & PhysiologyISBN: 9780136874089Not the one you use?Change textbook
All textbooksMartini, Nath, Bartholomew 11th EditionCh. 5 The Integumentary SystemProblem 15
Chapter 5, Problem 15

In which layer(s) of the epidermis does cell division occur?

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Understand that the epidermis is the outermost layer of the skin, composed of multiple sublayers, each with distinct functions and cell types.
Recall the layers of the epidermis from deepest to most superficial: stratum basale, stratum spinosum, stratum granulosum, stratum lucidum (only in thick skin), and stratum corneum.
Identify that cell division primarily occurs in the stratum basale, which is the deepest layer of the epidermis and contains basal keratinocytes that actively divide to produce new cells.
Note that as new cells are produced in the stratum basale, they move upward through the other layers, undergoing differentiation and eventually forming the protective outer layers.
Conclude that the stratum basale is the main site of cell division in the epidermis, while the other layers mainly involve cell maturation and keratinization.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Epidermis Structure

The epidermis is the outermost layer of the skin, composed of multiple sublayers including the stratum basale, stratum spinosum, stratum granulosum, stratum lucidum, and stratum corneum. Each layer has distinct functions and cell types, contributing to skin protection and regeneration.
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The Epidermis: Layers Example 2

Cell Division in the Epidermis

Cell division in the epidermis primarily occurs in the stratum basale, the deepest layer, where basal keratinocytes undergo mitosis. This process replenishes skin cells, allowing continuous renewal and repair of the epidermis.
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The Epidermis: Cells Example 2

Keratinocyte Differentiation and Migration

After cell division in the stratum basale, keratinocytes begin to differentiate and migrate upwards through the epidermal layers. As they move, they change shape and function, eventually forming the protective outer layer before being shed.
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Keratinocytes
Related Practice
Textbook Question

The two major components of the dermis are the

(a) Superficial fascia and cutaneous membrane

(b) Epidermis and subcutaneous layer

(c) Papillary layer and reticular layer

(d) Stratum basale and stratum corneum

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Textbook Question

List the four phases in the regeneration of the skin after an injury.

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Textbook Question

The cutaneous plexus and subpapillary plexus consist of

a. Blood vessels providing the dermal blood supply.

b. A network of nerves providing dermal sensations.

c. Specialized cells for cutaneous sensations.

d. Gland cells that release cutaneous secretions.

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Textbook Question

What widespread effects does epidermal growth factor (EGF) have on the integument?

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Textbook Question

Beginning at the basement membrane and traveling toward the free surface, the epidermis includes the following strata:

(a) Corneum, lucidum, granulosum, spinosum, basale

(b) Granulosum, lucidum, spinosum, basale, corneum

(c) Basale, spinosum, granulosum, lucidum, corneum

(d) Lucidum, granulosum, spinosum, basale, corneum

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Textbook Question

What two major layers constitute the dermis, and what components are in each layer?

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