Keratin, type I cuticular Ha7 (KRT37)

Keratin, type I cuticular Ha7 (KRT37) is a type I (acidic) hair keratin encoded by the KRT37 gene in humans[3][4]. It belongs to the intermediate filament protein family and is highly expressed in the hair medulla, contributing to the structural integrity of hair[1][3]. KRT37, like other type I hair keratins, forms heterodimers with type II keratins to generate strong fibrous structures in hair and nails[3][1]. Uniquely among keratins, KRT37 is regulated by androgens — a feature specific to humans — and may play a role in patterns of body and scalp hair growth, including possible involvement in androgenic alopecia[4]. Mutations or disruptions in KRT37 have been associated with rare diseases such as blepharocheilodontic syndrome 1 and iron overload in Africa[3]. There are currently no known direct therapeutic drugs targeting KRT37, and it is not generally considered a classical drug target such as a receptor, enzyme, or transporter[3][4].

Other names

KRT37HA7K37KRTHA7keratin 37