Dermal-Epidermal Junction weeks 6-10
Structural proteins of the dermal-epidermal junction
Most structural proteins of the DEJ are recognized only by the binding of specific antibodies raised in the laboratory to purified components. Hence, when we talk of antigens of the dermal-epidermal junction, we are really referring to the structural protein epitopes that are recognized by experimentally raised antibodies. The DEJ antigens appear early on in development, i.e. at about 6-10 weeks of gestation. The antigens that have been identified so far in embryonic skin are very similar to the antigens present in the corresponding location of adult skin.
This immunoflurescence micrograph shows laminas immunostaining of the dermal-epidermal junction with a monospecific antibody to lamina 5, indicating its presence in this location at this early point in development.
