What Are the Key Cellular and Molecular Components?
Several cellular and molecular components play critical roles in re-epithelialization:
- Keratinocytes: These are the primary cells involved in re-epithelialization. They migrate and proliferate to cover the wound. - Growth Factors: Molecules such as epidermal growth factor (EGF) and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) are pivotal in regulating keratinocyte behavior. - Extracellular Matrix (ECM): The ECM provides a scaffold for cell migration and contains various proteins and glycoproteins essential for cell adhesion and signaling. - Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs): These enzymes degrade the ECM, facilitating cell migration.
