Keratinocytes Can Regulate Prostaglandin Synthesis by Fibroblasts: Potential Role for Interleukin 1

Skin can be considered as a two-compartment tissue consisting of an overlying epidermis and an underlying dermis separated by a selectively permeable basement membrane. Studies on the communication between these skin compartments have shown that the keratinocyte, which is the constitutive cell of the epidermis appears susceptible to modulation by dermally derived influences. In tissue recombinant experiments, Billingham and Silvers (1967) found that regional epidermal histomorphology in guinea pigs (e.g. sole versus ear) was determined by the origin of the dermal component. Melbye and Karasek (1973) and Mackenzie and Fusenig (1983) further found that facilitation of epidermal proliferation may depend on diffusable, dermally-derived factors.