Physiology of the Skin MAGALANG
The skin is the largest organ of the body and plays a crucial role in
maintaining homeostasis. It is a complex, multi-layered structure that
functions as a barrier, sensory organ, and regulatory system for temperature
and water balance. The physiology of the skin involves various mechanisms
that ensure its function in protection, sensation, thermoregulation, and
immune defense.
Structure of the Skin
The skin consists of three primary layers:
A. EPIDERMIS
The epidermis is the outermost layer, composed primarily of keratinized
stratified squamous epithelium. It is avascular, meaning it lacks blood
vessels and relies on diffusion from the underlying dermis for nutrient supply.
Cell Types in the Epidermis
1. Keratinocytes – The most abundant cells, responsible for producing
keratin, a fibrous protein that provides mechanical strength and
waterproofing (Proksch et al., 2008).
2. Melanocytes – Produce melanin, which determines skin color and
protects against ultraviolet (UV) radiation (Slominski et al., 2004).
3. Langerhans Cells – Specialized immune cells that detect pathogens
and present antigens to the immune system (Nestle et al., 2009).
4. Merkel Cells – Mechanoreceptors involved in light touch sensation
(Halata et al., 2003).
Layers of the Epidermis (from deep to superficial)
Stratum basale (germinativum) – A single layer of basal cells responsible for
continuous cell division.
Stratum spinosum – Composed of multiple layers of keratinocytes connected
by desmosomes, providing structural integrity.
Stratum granulosum – Contains keratohyalin granules that aid in
keratinization.
Stratum lucidum (only in thick skin) – A translucent layer found in areas like
palms and soles.
Stratum corneum – The outermost layer composed of dead keratinized cells
that form a protective barrier (Madison, 2003).
B. DERMIS CABIGAS
The dermis lies beneath the epidermis and is composed of connective tissue,
blood vessels, nerves, and skin appendages. It provides mechanical support
and elasticity.
Two Layers of the Dermis
1. Papillary Layer – A thin, superficial layer of loose connective tissue with
capillaries, sensory neurons, and immune cells. It interdigitates with
the epidermis, forming dermal papillae (Silver et al., 2003).
2. Reticular Layer – A thicker layer composed of dense irregular
connective tissue with collagen and elastin fibers. It contains larger
blood vessels, hair follicles, sebaceous glands, and sweat glands
(Sandby-Møller et al., 2003).
C. HYPODERMIS (SUBCUTANEOUS TISSUE) AQUINO
The hypodermis consists of adipose tissue and loose connective tissue. It
functions in energy storage, insulation, and cushioning of underlying
structures (Gallo, 2008).
3. Functions of the Skin
A. Protection
The skin acts as a physical, chemical, and biological barrier against
mechanical trauma, pathogens, and harmful chemicals (Proksch et al., 2008).
The stratum corneum prevents water loss and entry of foreign substances.
B. Thermoregulation
Sweating – Eccrine sweat glands help cool the body through evaporative
heat loss.
Vasodilation & Vasoconstriction – Blood vessels in the dermis dilate to release
heat and constrict to conserve heat (Charkoudian, 2003).
C. Sensory Function
The skin contains mechanoreceptors, thermoreceptors, and nociceptors,
which detect touch, pressure, temperature, and pain. Merkel cells, Meissner
corpuscles, and Pacinian corpuscles contribute to tactile sensation (Halata et
al., 2003).
D. Immune Function
Langerhans cells and dermal macrophages play key roles in skin immunity by
detecting pathogens and initiating immune responses (Nestle et al., 2009).
E. Vitamin D Synthesis
UV radiation stimulates the conversion of 7-dehydrocholesterol in the
epidermis to cholecalciferol (vitamin D3), which is essential for calcium
homeostasis and bone health (Holick, 2007).
F. Wound Healing
The skin heals through four phases:
1. Hemostasis – Blood clot formation.
2. Inflammation – Recruitment of immune cells.
3. Proliferation – Fibroblast activity and collagen deposition.
4. Remodeling – Tissue reorganization and strengthening (Singer &
Clark, 1999).
References
Charkoudian, N. (2003). Skin blood flow in adult human thermoregulation.
Temperature, 31(5), 437-443.
Gallo, R. L. (2008). The role of antimicrobial peptides in innate immunity. The
Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 128(1), 237-245.
Halata, Z., Grim, M., & Bauman, K. I. (2003). Friedrich Merkel and his “Merkel
cell”, morphology, development, and physiology: Review and new results.
The Anatomical Record, 271(1), 225-239.
