What process occurs in the stratum germinativum?

The stratum germinativum, also known as the basal layer of the epidermis, is primarily responsible for the process of cellular division. This layer contains basal cells that undergo mitosis, leading to the generation of new skin cells. As these cells divide, they push older cells upward toward the surface of the skin, where they will eventually undergo differentiation and keratinization. This internal proliferation is crucial for the maintenance and renewal of the skin, allowing it to replace the cells that are lost from the surface as a result of wear and environmental factors.

This process is fundamental to skin health, as it constantly replenishes the skin's surface and supports the overall function of the epidermis. While other processes such as keratin production and the formation of new skin layers do occur within the overall skin cycle, the defining characteristic of the stratum germinativum is its role in cell division.