Keratin associated protein 21-4, pseudogene (KRTAP21-4P)

KRTAP21-4P (Keratin associated protein 21-4, pseudogene) is classified as a **pseudogene** within the keratin-associated protein (KAP) family[4]. The KAP family forms the matrix surrounding keratin intermediate filaments in hair and wool, contributing to their structure and mechanical properties, but pseudogenes such as KRTAP21-4P are genetically disrupted and do not produce a functional protein[2][4][5]. Pseudogenes are DNA sequences similar to normal genes but typically **lack biological function** due to mutations like frameshifts or in-frame stop codons[2][5]. KRTAP21-4P is not considered a therapeutic target, as it does not encode a functional protein involved in disease or modifiable cellular processes[4]. Its presence is mainly of interest in studies on gene evolution and the structural genomics of the KAP family[2][5]. **Notes:** - The HGNC-approved symbol is KRTAP21-4P; "KAP21A" is an alias, and "KRTAP21P1" is a previous symbol[4]. - As a **pseudogene**, KRTAP21-4P is not druggable, does not have known disease associations, and does not serve as a therapeutic biomarker[4]. - There is nothing to suggest its use as a biomarker, safety concern, or its implication in any biological pathway or disease[4][2]. - Its main relevance is taxonomical and evolutionary, not functional or clinical[2][5]. **Summary:** KRTAP21-4P is a non-functional **pseudogene** belonging to the keratin-associated protein gene family; it does not produce a protein, is not a therapeutic target, and has no known biological or disease role[4][2][5].

Other names

KAP21AKRTAP21P1keratin associated protein 21 pseudogene 1KRTAP21-4P