Keratin-associated protein 10-4 (KRTAP10-4)

Keratin-associated protein 10-4 (KRTAP10-4) is a structural protein encoded by an intronless gene located on chromosome 21q in humans[1][2][3]. It belongs to the high-sulfur subclass of the keratin-associated protein (KRTAP) family, which forms an interfilamentous matrix surrounding hair keratin intermediate filaments in the hair cortex[3][4][10]. This protein is essential for creating a rigid and resilient hair shaft by forming extensive disulfide cross-links with hair keratins through abundant cysteine residues, contributing to the mechanical stability of hair fibers[2][4][5][10]. Although some genetic association studies link mutations in KRTAP10-4 with hair disorders and possibly skin conditions like basal cell carcinoma, it is not currently recognized as a standard therapeutic target and no drugs directly interact with or modulate this protein[2]. Key points: - KRTAP10-4 is a structural hair matrix protein, **not** a receptor, enzyme, transporter, or major therapeutic target[2][10]. - Main biological function is to **support hair fiber architecture** by cross-linking to keratin filaments via disulfide bonds[10]. - Aliases and nomenclature can differ, but "Keratin-associated protein 10-4" and "KRTAP10-4" are most common and standardized[2]. - No established drug, biomarker, or safety profile is associated with this protein in clinical therapeutics.

Other names

Keratin-associated protein 10-4KRTAP10-4KAP10.4KAP18-4KRTAP10.4KRTAP18-4KRTAP18.4KAP18.4High sulfur keratin-associated protein 10.4Keratin-associated protein 18-4