Skin injuries promote healthy-cell expansion, impeding the growth of mutated cells, a new study finds. The discovery could inform treatments for skin cancer.
By Bill Hathaway
May 6, 2021
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Epithelial and two types of immune cells, Langerhans Cell (red) and Dendritic epidermal T cells (green), coordinate spacing on the surface of the skin for optimal defenses against injury and infection. (Courtesy Greco Lab)
As the human body’s largest organ, the skin is responsible for protecting against a wide range of possible infections on all fleshy surfaces, from head to toe. So how exactly does the skin organize its defenses against such an array of threats?
A new Yale study shows that the epidermis, the outermost layer of skin, is comprised of an army of immune cells that station themselves at regular intervals across the skin’s vast expanse to resist infection. When necessary, the researchers found, these immune system soldiers are able to reposition themselves to protect vulnerable areas.
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