Keratin, type II cytoskeletal 2 epidermal (KRT2)

Keratin, type II cytoskeletal 2 epidermal (KRT2) is a structural protein found predominantly in the upper spinous layer of epidermal keratinocytes, where it plays a critical role in the cytoskeleton and terminal differentiation of skin cells[1][3][2]. It is a member of the type II (basic or neutral) keratin family and forms heterodimers with type I keratins to assemble into intermediate filaments that maintain the integrity and resilience of epidermal tissue[4][6]. KRT2 expression is a hallmark of terminally differentiating suprabasal keratinocytes, especially in mechanically stressed epithelia such as the palms, soles, and other thick skin regions[2]. Mutations in KRT2 disrupt keratin filament structure, leading to epidermal fragility syndromes such as ichthyosis bullosa of Siemens and epidermolytic hyperkeratosis[1][3]. KRT2 is not considered a classic receptor, enzyme, or pharmacologic target, but its expression serves as a marker for keratinocyte differentiation and some skin pathologies[6][1].

Other names

Keratin 2Keratin 2AKeratin 2EKRT2AKRT2ECK-2eK2eKRTECytokeratin-2eEpithelial keratin-2eKeratin-2 epidermisKeratin-2eType-II keratin Kb2epidermal ichthyosis bullosa of Siemenskeratin 2, type IIKb2Krt2-17Krt2-2