The stratum corneum is a magnificent example of the successful adaptation of a tissue. Its efficient function is a prerequisite for life itself. We depend on its control of the movement of water through the skin and on its protective role in the prevention of penetration by pathogens or harmful substances. Apart from its functional importance, there is no escaping the fact that the most common skin disorders (psoriasis, eczema, inherited disorders of keratinization, acne) are 'characterised by abnormal keratinization and or scaliness. Despite all this, understanding of its chemistry, structure, physiology and involvement in disease has been sadly deficient; however, there are signs of enlightenment. This symposium is evidence of changed atti· tudes. Leading researchers from many countries have applied modem biomedical techniques and the methods of molecular biology to the many problems and questions posed by the stratum corneum. Although there have been several symposia and publications on the process of keratinization, few have been broadly based on the stratum corneum. For this reason we believe that the proceedings of this symposium will be invaluable for all who are profeSSionally concerned with skin biology. Cardiff/Diisseldorf, November 1982 R. Marks G. Plewig v Acknowledgements Alcon Labs. Limited Brocades G. B. Limited Cardiff City Council Cassella-Riedel Pharma GmbH. Cilag-Chemie Dermal Laboratories Limited Dista Products Limited Dome Div. Miles Laboratories Limited Hoechst AG. Imperial Chemical Industries Limited Janssen Pharmaceuticals Limited Johnson & Johnson Limited L'Oreal E.

I. Biochemistry

The Fibrous Proteins of the Epidermis
Isolation and Characterisation of Different Keratin Types From Human Epidermis
Cross-Linking of Epidermal Fibrous Protein
Epidermal Keratin: Filaments and Matrix
Control of Involucrin Synthesis During Terminal Differentiation of Human Epidermal Cells in Culture
The Synthesis, Fate and Function of Histidine-Rich Proteins in the Stratum Corneum
The Intercorneocyte Space
Preparation and Immunochemical Analysis of Non-Ionic Detergent-Soluble Protein From Human Stratum Corneum
Isolation and Lipid Composition of Fractions From the Superficial Stratum Corneum of the Pig
Epidermal Cholesterol Sulfate and Steroid Sulfatase Activity and Recessive X-linked Ichthyosis
DNase I - Actin Interaction in the Epidermis and Its Influence on Epidermal Metabolism
II. Aspects of the Immunology of the Stratum Corneum
Stratum Corneum Antigens: Their Role in Psoriasis and in the Autoimmune Repair Mechanisms
Natural Stratum Corneum Antibodies and Antigens
Localisation of Non-Ionic Detergent-Soluble Stratum Corneum Antigens in Human Epidermis
The Immunotracing of Keratinocyte Subsets
III. Structure and Function
The Cellular Architecture of the Stratum Corneum
Effects of Frictional Stimulation on the Structure of the Stratum Corneum
The Significance of the Size and Shape of Corneocytes
Thickness of Corneocytes
Age-Related Changes in Stratum Corneum, Structure and Function
Exfoliative Cytology: Effects of the Seasons
Scanning Electron Microscopy of Human Corneocytes
Corneocyte Size as An Indirect Measure of Epidermal Proliferative Activity
Corneocyte Formation Rate and Skin Disease
Skin Scales and Microbial Contamination
The Transparency of the Stratum Corneum as A Parameter of FunctionalAnalysis
Transmission of UV Radiation Through Horny Layer and Epidermis in Relation to the Minimal Erythema Dose (MED)
Elemental Distribution in Cross Sections of Guinea-pig Epidermis: X-ray Microanalysis in the Electron Microscope
IV. Pharmacological Topics
Effects of Isotretinoin (13-cis Retinoic Acid, Ro 4-3780) Treatment on Exfoliative Cytology
Follicular Keratinization
Druc-Induced Changes in Stratum Corneum Production Traced by Human Antibodies in Murine Tails
Changes in Corneocyte Size After Application of Topical Corticosteroids and Vehicles to Normal Skin
Water Sorption - Desorption Test of the Stratum Corneum of the Skin Surface in Vivo
Electical Measurement of the Hydration State of the Skin Surface in Vivo
The Relationship Between Conductance and Capacitance Measurements and Skin Surface Contour During Hydration of the Stratum Corneum.