Barrier Function of the Stratum Corneum and Skin Disorders : From Ichthyosis to Atopic / Allergic Diseases

Abstract

　Four important structures for the barrier function of the stratum corneum are 1) keratin and filaggrin in the cytoplasm of corneocytes ; 2) cornified cell envelope ; 3) corneocyte lipid envelope ; and 4) intercellular lipid layers of the stratum corneum. Abnormalities in these structures lead to defective barrier function in the stratum corneum, resulting in ichthyosis and atopic / allergic disorders.