The Skin Cell

An extraordinary microscopic view of a human keratinocyte, a specialised cell found in the outer layers of the skin. Fluorescence microscopy reveals an intricate network of keratin filaments extending throughout the cell, highlighted in brilliant golden-orange against a deep, dark background. The blue structures represent the cell nuclei, creating a striking contrast that brings the internal architecture of the cell into focus.

Keratin is a structural protein that forms an essential part of the skin's internal support system. Its filament network helps cells maintain their shape, withstand mechanical stress and preserve the integrity of the skin's protective barrier.

Part of Turing's MICROCOSMOS collection, this artwork reveals the remarkable organisation hidden within an ordinary human skin cell, transforming cellular biology into a captivating visual study.