ICSE Class 9 Answered

Layer of the skin

Structures found

Functions

Epidermis

Melanocytes

Produces melanin responsible for the skin tone and colour

Nerve endings

Contains sensory nerve cells or receptors which are sensitive to heat and cold

Cells of Langerhans

Prevents the entry of foreign substances inside the skin

Stratum corneum

Forms the outermost layer of the skin which contains keratin. It protects the underlying deeper layers of the skin from mechanical damage, bacterial infections and from loss of water or dehydration

Keratinocytes

Synthesises protein keratin which forms the protective layer of the skin

Stratum lucidum

Offers extra protection

Stratum granulosum

Helps in the formation of keratin

Stratum spinosum

Living cells that make Vitamin D in sunlight

Stratum basale

Makes brown pigment melanin

Dermis

Collagen fibres

Responsible for structural support

Elastin fibres

Responsible for the resilience of the skin

Fibroblast cells

Synthesise collagen, elastin and other structural molecules of the skin

Blood vessels

Provide oxygen and nourishment to the skin

Lymph nodes

Protect the skin from the attack of microbes

Sebacoues glands, sweat glands, hair follicles, nerves and muscle fibres

Produce sebum for the lubrication of the skin