Keratin-associated protein 5-5 (KRTAP5-5)

Keratin-associated protein 5-5 (KRTAP5-5) is a structural protein predominantly expressed in the hair cortex, where it contributes to the mechanical strength of hair by forming an interfilamentous matrix around keratin intermediate filaments[2][9]. Classified as an ultrahigh-sulfur keratin-associated protein, KRTAP5-5 cross-links hair keratins to enhance fiber durability. Recent studies have revealed that KRTAP5-5 also regulates cytoskeletal dynamics in cancer cells: its depletion leads to loss of keratin 14 and 18, upregulation of vimentin, altered actin organization, and downregulation of hemidesmosomal α6/β4-integrins, ultimately reducing cancer cell motility and vascular invasion[7][10]. Despite these findings, KRTAP5-5 is not currently considered a classical therapeutic target; there are no known pharmacological agents or established biomarker functions associated with this gene/protein[7][10][12].

Other names

KAP5-5KRTAP5.5KRTAP5-11KAP5-11KAP5.5Keratin-associated protein 5-11Keratin-associated protein 5.11Keratin-associated protein 5.5Ultrahigh sulfur keratin-associated protein 5.5