A feature unique to keratinocytes in the stratum corneum is that cells in this location:
A) Contain basophilic keratohyaline granules
B) Have a short half-life and rapidly undergo mitosis to form new cells
C) Have large numbers of mitochondria
D) Lack discrete nuclei
E) Possess large numbers of desmosomes

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Keratinocytes in the stratum corneum have undergone terminal differentiation, which includes the loss of their nuclei. This allows for the accumulation of large amounts of keratin, a tough protein that can provide protective properties to the skin. Choices A, B, C, and E are not unique to keratinocytes in the stratum corneum. Choice A refers to the presence of keratohyaline granules in the stratum granulosum, Choice B refers to the basal layer of the epidermis where mitosis occurs, Choice C is not specific to keratinocytes in the stratum corneum, and Choice E refers to the presence of desmosomes in all layers of the epidermis.

A Feature Unique to Keratinocytes in the Stratum Corneum Is