Keratin-associated protein 2-3 (KRTAP2-3)

Keratin-associated protein 2-3 (KRTAP2-3) is a structural protein highly expressed in the hair cortex, where it participates in the formation of the hair shaft. It is part of a large family of keratin-associated proteins (KRTAPs), which form the interfilamentous matrix that embeds hair keratin intermediate filaments, providing hair with rigidity and mechanical strength through extensive disulfide bonding with keratin proteins due to its cysteine-rich nature[3][5][1]. KRTAP2-3 belongs to the "high sulfur" subfamily of KRTAPs, reflecting its elevated cysteine content (around 28–29%)[1]. This protein does not function as a receptor, enzyme, transporter, or classical drug target, but rather plays a key structural role in hair fiber morphology and variability[1][5][4]. Variations in KRTAP expression and gene sequence contribute to diversity in hair structure among mammals, but it is not considered a therapeutic target or clinical biomarker[1][5][4].

Other names

KAP2.3KRTAP2.3KAP2.4KRTAP2-4KRTAP2.4High sulfur keratin-associated protein 2-3High sulfur keratin-associated protein 2.4Keratin-associated protein 2-4Keratin-associated protein 2.4