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Desmosome differentiation during epidermal cornification: new observations obtained from intermediate voltage
C A Larabell1, K Fukuyama, W L Epstein
1Intermediate Voltage Electron Microscope Facility, Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, University of Berkeley, California.
The Journal of Investigative Dermatology
|July 1, 1993
Summary
Human epidermis cell layers undergo structural changes during cornification. Electron microscopy reveals plasma membrane thickening occurs before desmosome connections form in these cells.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Dermatology
- Microscopy
Background:
- The human epidermis forms a protective barrier.
- Desmosomes are crucial for cell-cell adhesion in the epidermis.
- Understanding epidermal cell cornification is key to skin health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the ultrastructural changes in human epidermis during cornification.
- To examine the role of desmosomes and plasma membrane thickening in corneocytes.
- To explore the three-dimensional structure of epidermal cells.
Main Methods:
- Utilized 400-kV intermediate voltage electron microscopy.
- Employed epon sections significantly thicker than standard ultrathin sections.
- Generated stereo micrographs to visualize three-dimensional cellular structures.
Main Results:
- Observed asymmetry in desmosomal structures as epidermal cells cornified.
- Identified electron-dense proteins on the inner plasma membrane of corneocytes, separate from desmosomes.
- Revealed plasma membrane thickening occurs in areas lacking desmosomes prior to cell surface changes.
Conclusions:
- Cornification involves distinct changes in desmosomal structure and plasma membrane composition.
- The study provides new insights into the three-dimensional organization of epidermal cells.
- Advanced electron microscopy techniques enhance ultrastructural understanding of skin biology.