The Integumentary System 

Vocabulary 

Keratinocytes- a type of cell that produces keratin 

Keratin- a protein that gives skin it's strength as well as it's flexibility and waterproofs the skin surface

Melanocytes- a type of cell  that has a dark pigment that gives skin it's color

Merkal- a type of cell that is involved with the touch reception 

Langerhans- a type of cell that helps the immune system by processing antigens 

The main function of the Integumentary System is to protect the skin. It protects the body by being the barrier against infections and injuries. The Integumentary system also helps regulate a normal body temperature which is ninety- six point six degrees Fahrenheit. The two main layers of the skin is the epidermis and the dermis. The epidermis is the outer layer of the skin. The dermis is the inner layer of the skin. The epidermis is made up of several layers that has four types of cells. the four types are : Keratinocytes, Melanocytes, Merkals, and Langerhans. The Keratinocytes produces keratin. Melanocytes produces melanin. The epidermis does not have a direct blood supply. All the nutrients it receives is from the dermis. When the cells reach the skin surface, they are sloughed off in the process called desquamation. During this process, Keratinocytes are pushed to the surface. These cells begin to produce the keratin that will dominate their contents, eventually. 

           Water loss occurs in the skin by two  routes, which are by evaporation and sweating. During hot weather the skin can lose up to 4 liters of water by these mechanisms. If the skin is damaged by burns which is less effective at preventing fluid loss. This often can result in a life threatening problem if it's not being treated. There are sensory receptors in the skin that are used for pain, pressure, and temperature.