The two primary immune cells in the epidermis are Langerhans cells and keratinocytes.
- Langerhans cells are a type of dendritic cell that act as antigen-presenting cells (APCs). They are found in the stratum spinosum of the epidermis and are responsible for capturing and processing antigens from the environment. They then migrate to lymph nodes, where they present the antigens to T cells, initiating an immune response.
- Keratinocytes are the most common type of cell in the epidermis. They are responsible for forming the skin's protective barrier, but they also play a role in the immune response. Keratinocytes can produce cytokines, which are signaling molecules that can help to activate other immune cells. They can also express chemokines, which attract other immune cells to the site of an infection.
These two primary immune cells work together to protect the skin from infection and damage. Langerhans cells are the first line of defense, capturing and processing antigens. Keratinocytes then support the immune response by producing cytokines and chemokines.
