A skin cell in the stratum granulosum has experienced a mutation that altered its ability to produce keratin. Should this be a health concern for the individual?
A) No, because cells of the stratum granulosum are dying cells that do not reproduce, so the mutation will be isolated to the one cell.
B) Yes, because cells of the stratum granulosum divide by mitosis to produce keratin to protect the skin.
C) No, cells of the stratum granulosum only produce the waterproofing material in the skin.
D) Yes, without normal cell function in the stratum granulosum, the skin will lose color due to lack of melanin production.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Cells in the stratum granulosum are part of the skin's epidermis where they undergo a process of cell death as they move towards the surface. These cells do not divide, and their primary function includes producing keratin and other substances that contribute to the skin's barrier function. A mutation in one of these cells would not propagate because these cells are not replicating and are on a path to being shed from the skin surface.

A Skin Cell in the Stratum Granulosum Has Experienced a Mutation