Stratified squamous, keratinized (dry) epithelium
This electron micrograph shows the superficial-most cells (squames) of the skin epithelium. This epithelium is stratified squamous, keratinized, and thus the superficial-most cells are non-living, lack organelles and consist primarily of a thickened plasma membrane enclosing aggregated keratin. Cells which have been sloughed lie adjacent to the epithelium. 6000x
Squamous cells >
The superficial-most cells (squames) of the epithelium are shown in this electron micrograph. This epithelium is stratified squamous, keratinized, and thus these cells (red arrows) are non-living, lack organelles and consist primarily of a thickened plasma membrane enclosing keratin. The closely stacked squames provide protection against abrasion and desiccation. Cells that have been sloughed are indicated by the blue arrows.
Skin surface
The superficial-most cells (squames) of the epithelium are shown in this electron micrograph. This epithelium is stratified squamous, keratinized, and thus these cells (red arrows) are non-living, lack organelles and consist primarily of a thickened plasma membrane enclosing keratin. The closely stacked squames provide protection against abrasion and desiccation. Cells that have been sloughed are indicated by the blue arrows.
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