Skin: Development and Regeneration Potential

Given the skin’s vital importance as a homeostatic organ, as a first-line defense against pathogens, and as an overall guardian against the elements, its capacity for self-maintenance and repair in basal and injurious states is a critical factor in preserving the health of the organism. Epidermal stem cells are primary actors in enabling the skin to function in its unique role. The skin’s responsibilities necessitate a line of cells that are able to continuously divide, overturn, and in all forms, serve in a protective capacity for the organism. As a consequence, pathology and injury outside the realm of skin’s self-regenerative mechanisms can lead to significant homeostatic decline and detriment to the organ. Thus, targeting key factors and processes that aid in skin maintenance and regeneration ...