spinous cell of epidermis
spinous cell of epidermis
A keratinocyte found within the stratum spinosum (prickle cell layer) of the epidermis, distinguished by numerous intercellular desmosomes, which give it a “prickly” or spiny appearance. Positioned above the mitotically active basal layer and beneath the granular layer, it contributes to the skin’s mechanical strength and barrier function, preventing water loss and pathogen entry. This cell expresses differentiation-specific keratins K1 and K10 in mice, unlike basal cells that express K5 and K14, and lacks the keratohyalin granules found in granular cells, marking its intermediate stage of epidermal differentiation.