What type of skin cells provide protection from UV rays?

Melanocytes are specialized skin cells responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. These cells play a crucial role in protecting the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. When the skin is exposed to UV rays, melanocytes increase melanin production in response to protect deeper layers of the skin. Melanin absorbs and dissipates UV radiation, significantly reducing the risk of DNA damage in skin cells, which can lead to skin cancer.

Keratinocytes, while they do provide a physical barrier and play a role in skin renewal, are not primarily responsible for UV protection. Fibroblasts are involved in producing collagen and maintaining the extracellular matrix, and Langerhans cells are part of the immune response in the skin. However, they do not specifically provide the UV protection that melanin offers. Therefore, the role of melanocytes in melanin production is key to understanding how the skin defends itself against UV damage.