title: Deconstructing the skin: cytoarchitectural determinants of epidermal morphogenesis.
abstract: To provide a stable environmental barrier, the epidermis requires an integrated network of cytoskeletal elements and cellular junctions. Nevertheless, the epidermis ranks among the body's most dynamic tissues, continually regenerating itself and responding to cutaneous insults. As keratinocytes journey from the basal compartment towards the cornified layers, they completely reorganize their adhesive junctions and cytoskeleton. These architectural components are more than just rivets and scaffolds - they are active participants in epidermal morphogenesis that regulate epidermal polarization, signalling and barrier formation.
authors.affiliation: Department of Pathology, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA.
authors.forename: Cory L
authors.initials: CL
authors.lastname: Simpson
authors.forename: Dipal M
authors.initials: DM
authors.lastname: Patel
authors.forename: Kathleen J
authors.initials: KJ
authors.lastname: Green
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D002448:Cell Adhesion / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology; D000078404:Epidermal Cells; D004817:Epidermis / Q000254:growth & development*; D006801:Humans; D007365:Intercellular Junctions / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology; D008954:Models, Biological; D009024:Morphogenesis / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology*; D012867:Skin / Q000166:cytology* / Q000254:growth & development* / Q000648:ultrastructure