Which layer of the epidermis is primarily composed of keratin-filled cells?

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The layer of the epidermis that is primarily composed of keratin-filled cells is the stratum granulosum. This layer contains keratinocytes that begin to undergo a process called keratinization, where they accumulate the protein keratin. As these cells move up from the lower layers of the epidermis, they gradually fill with keratin, which is essential for providing the skin with strength and waterproofing.

In the stratum granulosum, the cells appear more flattened compared to the underlying layers, and they have granules rich in keratohyalin, which contribute to the formation of keratin as the cells progress towards the uppermost layer of the skin. This is crucial for the skin's barrier function and overall health.

While other layers, such as the stratum corneum, also consist of keratinized cells, the stratum corneum is made up of dead cells that are fully keratinized, providing the final protective layer. The stratum lucidum is only found in thick skin and provides an additional barrier, and the stratum spinosum primarily serves as a strength layer with intercellular connections rather than being mainly composed of keratin-filled cells.

Thus, the stratum granulosum is the

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