In which layers of the skin does mitosis occur?

Mitosis, the process by which cells divide and replicate, primarily occurs in the deeper layers of the skin where new cells are generated to replace those that are shed from the surface. The stratum spinosum, germinativum, and basal layer are critical areas for this process.

The stratum germinativum, also known as the basal layer, contains stem cells that divide to produce new skin cells. These newly formed cells then migrate upward through the layers of the skin to replenish those that are lost. The stratum spinosum lies above the basal layer and is also involved in mitosis, contributing to the increase in skin cell density.

Mitosis does not occur effectively in the stratum corneum, as this layer is composed of dead, keratinized cells that are no longer alive and do not divide. The stratum granulosum is another layer where cells begin the process of keratinization and do not undergo mitosis. Furthermore, the stratum lucidum, which is only present in thick skin areas, is made up of dead cells and also does not participate in the mitotic process.

Thus, the correct answer highlights the layers where active cell division takes place to ensure the integrity