Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 8, 2026

Granulocyte-dependent Autoantibody-induced Skin Blistering
Published on: October 12, 2012
The biomolecular and ultrastructural basis of epidermolysis bullosa
C Solovan1, M Ciolan, L Olariu
1University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Dermatology Department, Nicoara Moise 6, 300314 Timisoara, Romania.
Abstract:
Transmission electron microscopy, immunoelectron microscopy, immunofluorescence and antigenic mapping have improved our understanding of the dermo-epidermal junction. We have reviewed some ultrastructural and biomolecular aspects related to the dermo-epidermal junction. In part, they are implicated in the pathogenesis of a group of hereditary disorders characterized by skin fragility, collectively known as epidermolysis bullosa (EB). These disorders could benefit in the near future from a gene therapy approach but at present genetic counseling, prenatal diagnosis and conservative treatment measures offer little real benefit to patients.
Related Concept Videos
Structural Protein Function
Collagen, the most abundant protein in mammals, is found throughout the body. In connective tissue, such as skin, ligaments, and tendons, it provides tensile strength and elasticity. In bones and teeth, it mineralizes to form...
Desmosomes
Renewal of Skin Epidermal Stem Cells
Clinical Applications of Epidermal Stem Cells
Cells of the Epidermis
The cells in all these layers except the stratum basale are called keratinocytes, a type of cell that manufactures and stores the protein keratin. The keratinocytes in the stratum corneum are dead and regularly slough away, being replaced by cells from...
Layers of the Epidermis
Stratum Basale
Stratum basale, also known as the stratum germinativum, is the deepest layer of the epidermis. It is composed of a single layer of actively dividing cells called basal cells or basal keratinocytes. These cells constantly undergo cell division to replenish the upper layers of the epidermis. Additionally, melanocytes, which...

