Keratin

Keratins: Proteins that form the basis of hair, nails and the stratum corneum of the epithelium.

Keratins are a special type of proteins that play an important role in the composition of various tissues and structures of the body, including hair, nails and the stratum corneum. These proteins differ in their composition and structure, which gives them unique properties and functions.

One of the key features of keratins is their richness in cystine. Cystine is a sulfur-containing amino acid that plays an essential role in the formation of complex structural networks characteristic of keratins. Due to the presence of cystine, keratins have high strength and resistance to mechanical stress.

Another important feature of keratins is their resistance to proteolytic enzymes. Proteolytic enzymes are enzymes that can break down proteins into their component amino acids. However, keratins have a special structure that makes them less susceptible to such splitting. Thanks to this, keratins can serve as a protective shell for various tissues and act as a barrier to external influences.

Keratins are found in hair, nails and the stratum corneum of the epithelium. Hair is composed mainly of keratin, which gives it strength and elasticity. Keratin also forms the structure of nails, making them strong and resilient. The stratum corneum of the epithelium, which covers the skin, also contains keratins, which provide its protective properties and elasticity.

In addition, keratins are important in the cosmetic and medical industries. Due to their unique properties, they are widely used in the production of shampoos, conditioners, hair masks and other hair and nail care products. Keratins are also used in the treatment of various skin diseases and injuries, including burns and ulcers.

In conclusion, keratins are special proteins that play an important role in the formation and maintenance of various body tissues. Their strength, stability and protective properties make them an integral part of the structure of hair, nails and the stratum corneum of the epithelium. Keratins are also widely used in the cosmetic and medical industries, where their unique properties are used to improve appearance and treat various problems.



Keratins are complex proteins that play an important role in the human and animal body. They are the basis for the creation of various tissues and organs, including hair, nails, skin and the stratum corneum of the epithelium. In this article we will look at what keratins are, how they function in the body and why they are important for health and beauty.

Keratins are macromolecules consisting of amino acids. They perform many functions in the body, including strengthening tissues, protecting against damage, and regulating many processes. Keratins are composed of four main amino acids: arginine, lysine, glycine and cystine. These amino acids form characteristic cyclic structures called polypeptide rings in keratin molecules.

An important characteristic of keratins is their inability to be degraded by proteolytic (those that break down protein) enzymes. This means that keratin is a stable protein component that can withstand many chemical and physical attacks that affect other proteins. It is thanks to this property that keratins are of great importance in protecting vital tissues and organs from infections, injuries and other negative factors.

One of the main functions of keratins for the body is to maintain the strength of hair and nails. Hair also contains keratin, and its loss leads to a number of problems. Mainly, the keratin of the hair follicles gives the hair shine, smoothness, and elasticity. When the keratin in the hair follicles is destroyed, the hair becomes dull, weak, breaks easily, falls out frequently, and in some cases may even lose its vibrant color. People often try to change their appearance by dyeing or perming their hair,