Where are nail plate cells formed?

Nail plate cells are formed in the matrix bed, which is the tissue located beneath the base of the nail. The matrix is crucial in nail growth because it is where new nail cells are produced and push the existing cells forward, resulting in the formation of the nail plate. The cells produced in the matrix become keratinized as they move outward, leading to the hard structure of the nail.

The lunula, often visible at the base of the nail, is part of the matrix but specifically refers to the visible part of the matrix. While it contributes to nail structure, it is not the primary site of nail cell formation. The free edge is the part of the nail that extends beyond the fingertip and does not play a role in cell formation. The hyponychium is the layer of skin located under the free edge of the nail and helps to protect the nail bed but is not involved in the actual production of nail cells.