stratum basale (basal cell layer)

Introduction

The deepest layer of the epidermis.

Structure

* Layers of epidermis (from the surface) include:

• stratum corneum (keratin {horny} layer)
• stratum lucidum (clear layer) <palms & soles>
• stratum granulosum (granular layer)
• stratum spinosum (prickle cell layer)
• stratum basale (basal cell layer)

Histology

• consists of proliferatingstem cells & anchoring cells (basal cells)
• it lies on the epidermal basement membrane at the dermal-epidermal junction.

More general terms

• organ structure

More specific terms

• stratum germinativum unguis

Component of

• epidermis