Skin Stem Cells

Our skin is composed of three distinct layers containing specialised cells. There are several different types of stem cells maintaining and repairing the skin. So far, researchers have identified the types of cells responsible for producing the epidermal layer, hair follicles, and skin pigment. These stem cells are already used to create simple skin grafts to repair skin damaged by genetic conditions or injury, such as severe burns. By identifying and studying the other types of skin stem cells, researchers hope to be able to create skins grafts with the properties of healthy skin.