Deconstructing the skin: cytoarchitectural determinants of epidermal morphogenesis

Keratinocytes of the epidermis undergo several transformations as they differentiate and migrate outwards in the tissue to maintain epidermal homeostasis. Dynamic changes in adhesive junctions and the cytoskeleton of keratinocytes are a driving force in this morphogenesis. To provide a stable environmental barrier, the epidermis requires an integrated network of cytoskeletal elements and cellular junctions. Nevertheless, the epidermis ranks among the body's most dynamic tissues, continually regenerating itself and responding to cutaneous insults. As keratinocytes journey from the basal compartment towards the cornified layers, they completely reorganize their adhesive junctions and cytoskeleton. These architectural components are more than just rivets and scaffolds — they are active participants in epidermal morphogenesis that regulate epidermal polarization, signalling and barrier formation.