Melanocyte prent in which layer oof skin
Melanocytes are found in the stratum basale (basal layer) of the epidermis - the deepest layer of the epidermis that sits on the basement membrane.
Key points:
- Melanocytes make up about 5-10% of cells in the basal layer
- They are derived from neural crest cells
- They produce melanin pigment in organelles called melanosomes
- Melanin is transferred to surrounding keratinocytes via dendritic processes, protecting against UV radiation
- The ratio is roughly 1 melanocyte per 10 keratinocytes (varies by body site)
Melanocytes are also found in hair follicles, the uveal tract of the eye, and the inner ear - but in the skin specifically, they reside in the basal layer (stratum basale).
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