By the Time Epidermal Cells Reach the Surface of the Epidermis

Question

By the time epidermal cells reach the surface of the epidermis they are filled with ________.
A)Keratin
B)Carotene
C)Lunula
D)Granulosa

Accepted Answer

Epidermal cells, specifically the outermost layer of the epidermis called the stratum corneum, are filled with a tough protein substance called keratin. This helps to protect the skin from damage and water loss. Carotene is a pigment found in certain foods that can give the skin a yellow or orange tint, but it is not present in epidermal cells. Lunula is the half-moon shaped area at the base of the nail, and granulosa refers to a layer of cells in the epidermis that is involved in the production of keratinocytes.