Skin cells

Skin cells represent a heterogeneous population of cell types, including keratinocytes, melanocytes, fibroblasts, and specialized immune cells, which collectively form the integumentary system. These cells function as the body's primary physical and chemical barrier against environmental pathogens, ultraviolet radiation, and dehydration (StatPearls, 2023). While 'skin cells' are the site of action for numerous dermatological therapies, the term is not a specific molecular target; rather, it describes a complex tissue environment containing various receptors, enzymes, and signaling pathways that are targeted by drugs (NIH, 2022). Pharmacological interventions involving skin cells range from topical treatments for inflammatory conditions like psoriasis and eczema to systemic therapies for cutaneous malignancies such as melanoma and basal cell carcinoma (Mayo Clinic, 2023). Understanding the specific molecular interactions within these distinct cell populations is critical for developing effective treatments that maintain skin integrity while addressing underlying pathology (PubMed, 2021).

Other names

KeratinocytesMelanocytesDermal fibroblastsLangerhans cellsMerkel cellsEpidermal cellsCutaneous cells

Drugs targeting skin-related conditions act through various molecular mechanisms within these cells, including glucocorticoid receptor agonism, cytokine inhibition (e.g., TNF-alpha, IL-17, IL-4/13), retinoid receptor modulation, and BRAF kinase inhibition in malignant cells.