The stratum basale is the bottom layer of keratinocytes in the epidermis and is responsible for constantly renewing epidermal cells. This layer contains just one row of undifferentiated columnar stem cells that divide very frequently. Half of the cells differentiate and move to the next layer to begin the maturation process. The other half stay in the basal layer and divide over and over again to replenish the basal layer.
Epidermis Anatomy
By Heather Brannon, MD, About.com Guide
Updated: September 30, 2007
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board
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