<Ul> <Li> Transforming growth factor Alpha (TGFα) is an autocrine growth factor by which basal cells stimulate their own division . </Li> <Li> Keratinocyte growth factor (KGF or FGF7) is a paracrine growth factor produced by the underlying dermal fibroblasts in which the proliferation of basal cells is regulated . </Li> </Ul> <Li> Transforming growth factor Alpha (TGFα) is an autocrine growth factor by which basal cells stimulate their own division . </Li> <Li> Keratinocyte growth factor (KGF or FGF7) is a paracrine growth factor produced by the underlying dermal fibroblasts in which the proliferation of basal cells is regulated . </Li> <P> The epidermis serves as a barrier to protect the body against microbial pathogens, oxidant stress (UV light) and chemical compounds and provides mechanical resistance . Most of that function is played by the stratum corneum . </P>

The most important cells in the epidermis are the