Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

5. Integumentary System

The Epidermis: Cells

Anatomy & Physiology

5. Integumentary System

The Epidermis: Cells

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2:40 minutes

Problem 2

Textbook Question

Which cell functions as part of the immune system?
a. Keratinocyte
b. Melanocyte
c. Dendritic cell
d. Tactile epithelial cell

Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Understand the role of each cell type listed in the options. Keratinocytes are the primary cells of the epidermis and are involved in forming a protective barrier but do not directly function in the immune system.

Step 2: Recognize that melanocytes are responsible for producing melanin, which protects the skin from UV radiation, but they are not immune system cells.

Step 3: Learn that dendritic cells, also known as Langerhans cells in the skin, are specialized immune cells that detect and present antigens to T cells, initiating an immune response.

Step 4: Note that tactile epithelial cells (Merkel cells) are involved in sensory functions, specifically touch, and do not play a role in the immune system.

Step 5: Based on the above analysis, identify that the dendritic cell is the correct answer because it functions as part of the immune system by detecting and presenting antigens.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Immune System

The immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to defend the body against harmful pathogens, such as bacteria and viruses. It includes various types of cells, each with specific roles, such as recognizing and attacking foreign invaders, producing antibodies, and remembering past infections to provide immunity.

Dendritic Cells

Dendritic cells are a type of antigen-presenting cell that play a crucial role in the immune response. They capture and process antigens from pathogens and present them to T cells, thereby initiating and regulating the adaptive immune response. Their ability to bridge innate and adaptive immunity makes them essential for effective immune function.

Keratinocytes and Melanocytes

Keratinocytes are the primary cells found in the outer layer of the skin, responsible for forming a protective barrier, while melanocytes produce the pigment melanin, which protects against UV radiation. Although important for skin health, neither keratinocytes nor melanocytes directly participate in immune responses like dendritic cells do.