Keratin 6a (K6a)

Keratin 6a is a type II intermediate filament protein encoded by the KRT6A gene and is a principal structural protein in epithelial cells of the skin, nails, hair, and oral mucosa[1][2][3]. It partners with keratin 16 to form keratin intermediate filaments, providing mechanical strength, resilience, and protection against frictional stress in these tissues[1][2]. Keratin 6a plays a key role in wound healing and has been identified as a major antimicrobial factor in the eye[3][6]. Mutations in KRT6A cause pachyonychia congenita, leading to nail and skin fragility, severe blistering, and callus formation due to impaired filament assembly[1][2][4]. Aberrant expression or mutation has also been linked to cancer progression, including bladder cancer[7]. This protein is widely used as an epithelial marker in pathology, often in combination with keratin 5 as part of CK5/6 antibodies[3]. No direct drug interactions or mechanisms of action for pharmacological targeting are currently established.

Other names

KRT6Akeratin 6Acytokeratin 6ACK6a