Which type of cell in the epidermis is responsible for producing keratin?

Keratinocytes are the primary type of cell in the epidermis responsible for producing keratin, a vital structural protein that helps to form the outer layer of skin, as well as hair and nails. Keratin provides strength and waterproofing, making the skin resilient against physical and environmental stressors.

As keratinocytes move from the deeper layers of the epidermis toward the surface, they undergo a process called keratinization, where they become filled with keratin and gradually die off, forming a protective barrier. This formation of keratin is crucial for maintaining skin integrity, providing protection from pathogens, and reducing water loss from the body.

Melanocytes, while crucial for pigment production, do not produce keratin. Fibroblasts, found in the dermis, are involved in producing collagen and extracellular matrix rather than keratin. Adipocytes are fat cells that primarily store energy and are located in the subcutaneous layer, rather than contributing to the epidermal structure. Thus, keratinocytes are central to the formation and maintenance of the epidermal barrier through their keratin-producing function.