Dictionary > Stratum lucidum

Stratum lucidum

Definition
noun
The thin, clear layer of the epidermis comprised of keratinocytes filled with eleidin proteins, and occurs in the palms (palmar skin) and the soles (plantar skin)
Supplement
In animals, such as vertebrates, the epidermis is made up of four or five layers (each called stratum). These layers protect the underneath layers of the skin against physical damage, infection, and water loss. In humans, the epidermis consists of the following layers: (1) stratum corneum, (2) stratum lucidum, (3) stratum granulosum, (4) stratum spinosum, and (5) stratum basale or germinativum).
The stratum lucidum is a Latin term, which literally means clear layer. The name is derived from its translucence when viewed under a microscope. This layer is found particularly in the palmar and plantar skin. The presence of the stratum lucidum makes the palmar and plantar skin characteristically thick. The skin in other body parts lacks stratum lucidum. Its presence indicates the importance of having thicker skin to protect against frequent exposure to mechanical stress.
The stratum lucidum is found in in between the stratum corneum and the stratum granulosum. The keratinocytes are filled with eleidin (a protein that may be later converted to keratin).
Synonym(s):

  • clear layer of the epidermis

See also:

  • skin
  • epidermis
  • stratum corneum
  • stratum granulosum
  • stratum spinosum
  • stratum basale
  • horny cell


  • You will also like...

    running freshwater community
    Running Water Freshwater Community Factors

    This tutorial noted some of the physical and chemical factors that provide the framework of a running water community in..

    Water Cycle
    The Water Cycle

    The water cycle (also referred to as the hydrological cycle) is a system of continuous transfer of water from the air, s..

    Salmon jumping upstream in the river
    Lotic Communities & Animals

    A running water environment offers numerous microhabitats for many types of animals. Similar to plants, animals in lotic..

    An artist depiction of a Precambrian multicellular life form.
    The Evolution of Cell Organelles

    The nucleus containing the genetic material, DNA, and the mitochondria, well-identified as the "powerhouse of the cell",..

    Flowers and tiny fruits of the pomegranate plant
    Fruits, Flowers, and Seeds

    This tutorial deals with the structure and function of flowers, fruits, and seeds. Also included here are the types of f..

    Principles of Hormonal Control Systems
    Principles of Hormonal Control Systems

    Hormones are essential in the regulation of the activity of the various biological systems of the human body. The ineffi..

    Related Articles...

    No related articles found

    See all Related Topics