Epidermal keratinocyte cohesion

Epidermal keratinocyte cohesion is not a specific molecule or receptor but rather describes the collective process by which epidermal keratinocytes adhere to one another to maintain the structural integrity and barrier function of the skin. This cohesion is mediated by a complex network of cell-cell junctions (such as desmosomes), cytoskeletal elements (notably intermediate filaments composed of various keratins like K14 and K10), and associated regulatory proteins. Proper regulation of these components ensures effective cell adhesion, supports tissue architecture during differentiation and migration, and preserves epidermal homeostasis. Disruption in this process can result in pathological conditions such as blistering diseases or impaired wound healing[1][2]. Because "epidermal keratinocyte cohesion" refers to a biological property or process rather than an individual molecular target, it is not considered a canonical therapeutic target itself.