The spiny layer of the skin is referred to as what?

The spiny layer of the skin is referred to as the stratum spinosum. In the epidermal layer of the skin, the stratum spinosum is positioned above the stratum basale and below the stratum granulosum. It is characterized by its spiky appearance under a microscope, which is created by the desmosomes that connect the keratinocytes, giving it structural integrity. This layer is crucial for the protective functions of the skin, as it enables the skin to maintain its strength and resilience while providing a barrier against environmental stressors. It is also involved in the immune response, as it contains Langerhans cells that play a role in recognizing pathogens. The spiny nature of this layer not only supports these functions but also contributes to the overall health of the epidermis.