Question

Describe the protein Keratin with cited sources describing the function of this protein.

Answer 1

Keratin is a long filament type of protein that holds the cells together and the layer beneath it also known as the dermis. They are present in the cells. They also forms the outermost layer of our skin. Specialised cells in the epithelial layer known as keratinocytes are responsible for making keratin. The body is covered with a layer of tissues known as the epithelial layer. The epithelial layer covers the outside of the body along with the outside of all the organs inside the body. The layer of cells may get damaged by action of stress when applied. In order to protect this layer of epithelial cells keratin protein functions as a barrier between the outside and the apithelial layer. Along with the function of protection they may also act as a medium for transport for ions, fluids and signals within the body. The most common and well known example of its function is protection of hair folicles from getting damaged.

A good reference for keratin is , Progress in Materials Science, Volume 76, March 2016, Pages 229-318 ; International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology, Volume 311, 2014, Pages 265-306 [and the references thereof]