Which of the following is NOT a layer of the epidermis?

The epidermis is composed of several distinct layers, each with specific characteristics and functions. The layers typically recognized in the epidermis include the stratum corneum, stratum spinosum, and stratum lucidum.

The stratum corneum is the outermost layer of the epidermis, consisting of dead skin cells that provide a barrier to protect underlying layers and reduce water loss. The stratum spinosum is located beneath the stratum corneum and is known for its spiny appearance due to desmosomal connections between keratinocytes. The stratum lucidum, found primarily in thick skin areas such as the palms and soles, is a thin, transparent layer that aids in providing an additional barrier.

On the other hand, "stratum granules" is not a recognized layer of the epidermis. It appears to be a misnomer or confusion with the stratum granulosum, which is indeed a layer of the epidermis located above the stratum lusidum in thicker skin or above the stratum spinosum in thinner skin. The stratum granulosum plays a crucial role in the process of keratinization, where keratinocytes begin to flatten and lose their nuclei, contributing to