Stratified squamous keratinized epithelium is found mainly in the epidermis of our skin. It helps prevent water loss or dehydration, and protection from external forces. The cells in the basement membrane move progressively toward the surface of the skin as they accumulate keratin (through keratinization). They become thinner as they approach the skin surface. 1. Cornified layer – the uppermost and keratinized layer of the epidermis. Thin, metabolically inactive keratin lacking nuclei 2. Epidermis – outer barrier that protects the body from physical forces, chemical substances and microorganisms from entring the body 3. Basement membrane – a semipermeable filter for substances reaching the epithelial cells from below 4. Dermis – contains collagen, elastic tissue, and extracellular components. It provides strength and flexibility to the skin.
Stratified squamous keratinized epithelium is found mainly in the epidermis of our skin. It helps prevent water loss or dehydration, and protection from external forces. The cells in the basement membrane move progressively toward the surface of the skin as they accumulate keratin (through keratinization). They become thinner as they approach the skin surface. 1. Cornified layer – the uppermost and keratinized layer of the epidermis. Thin, metabolically inactive keratin lacking nuclei 2. Epidermis – outer barrier that protects the body from physical forces, chemical substances and microorganisms from entring the body 3. Basement membrane – a semipermeable filter for substances reaching the epithelial cells from below 4. Dermis – contains collagen, elastic tissue, and extracellular components. It provides strength and flexibility to the skin.