stratum corneum of esophageal epithelium
The outermost layer of the stratified squamous epithelium lining the esophagus, composed of several layers of flattened epithelial cells that are partially or non-keratinized. This layer provides a protective barrier against mechanical and chemical insults, contributing to tissue integrity and regulating permeability through its apical cell membranes and intercellular junctional complexes.