Immune-associated surface markers of human keratinocytes

The results of a number of investigations have proved that human keratinocytes (HKs) possess the ability to synthesize and express cell surface moieties characteristic of effector and/or accessory cells of the immune system. The present paper summarizes the known immune cell surface features of HKs, reflecting their stage of activation and differentiation. The surface and functional characteristics of HKs suggest their monocyte/macrophage behavior, which fits in well with the presumed active involvement of HKs in the skin immune system.