Recent and rapid advances in genetics have had an impact on our understanding of skin diseases. The Human Genome Project has now mapped all human genes, of which there are about 35 000. Whilst the original Mendelian concept of single…
Inflammatory responses are central to biological homeostasis. Inflammation is mediated by molecular signalling between resident skin cells and specialized immunological cells which results in specific cellular interactions, or by release of soluble mediators. In the skin, strong inflammatory reactions are…
Keratins The important molecules synthesized by the skin include keratin, melanin, collagen and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). Keratins are high-molecular-weight polypeptide chains produced by keratinocytes ( Fig. 4.1 ). They are the major constituents of the stratum corneum, hair and nails. The…
The skin is a metabolically active organ with vital functions ( Box 3.1 ), including the protection and homeostasis of the body. Box 3.1 Functions of skin Presents barrier to physical agents Protects against mechanical injury Antimicrobial peptides have a…
Hair Hairs are found over the entire surface of the skin, with the exception of the glabrous skin of the palms, soles, glans penis and vulval introitus. The density of follicles is greatest on the face. Embryologically, the hair follicle…
Introduction The skin is one of the largest organs in the body, having a surface area of 1.8 m 2 and making up about 16% of body weight. It has many functions, the most important of which is as a…