Quick List of Specialized Structures in Vertebrate Integument
Basket Cells: mechanoreceptor cells at the base of hair follicles
Keratinocytes: the majority of cells comprising the epidermis; dead, cornified layer that protects the underlying integumentary layers
Stratified Squamous Epithelium: keratinized squamous epithelium is the tissue that comprises the skin; non-keritatinized epithelium lines the cornea, oral cavity, etc.
Langerhans cells: dendritic cells that are morphologically and functionally similar to macrophages
Chromatophores: Produce pigment in the integument (known as chromatocytes, specifically melanin, in mammals and birds)
Merkel Cells: receptor cells found in the skin of vertebrates that have synaptic contacts with somatosensory afferents. They are associated with the sense of light touch discrimination of shapes and textures.
Pacinian Corpuscles: nerve receptors located in the subcutaneous fatty tissue that respond to pressure/ vibration.
Sudoriferous Glands: the sweat glands
Stratum Corneum: tough, outermost layer of the epidermis; protects underlying cell layers
