keratinisoituneita

Keratinisoituneita is a Finnish term that translates to "keratinized" in English. It refers to a biological process where cells, particularly in the skin and its appendages like hair and nails, undergo a transformation and accumulate keratin. Keratin is a tough, fibrous structural protein that is rich in sulfur. This process is essential for forming protective barriers within the body.

In the skin, keratinization, or keratinisaatio, is a key part of the epidermis's life cycle. Cells in the lower layers of the epidermis divide and migrate upwards. As they move towards the surface, they differentiate, producing increasing amounts of keratin. Eventually, these cells flatten and die, forming a protective outer layer called the stratum corneum. This layer is a vital barrier against mechanical damage, dehydration, and pathogen invasion.

Hair and nails are also primarily composed of keratinized cells. In hair follicles, cells undergo rapid keratinization to form the hair shaft. Similarly, the hardened plate of the nail is a result of intensely keratinized cells. The degree of keratinization can vary; for example, the stratum corneum of the skin is highly keratinized, whereas the inner layers of the epidermis are not. Conditions affecting keratinization can lead to various dermatological issues.