Cytokeratin 16 is encoded by the KRT16 gene and is typically expressed in the basal layer of stratified epithelial tissues, such as the skin, hair follicles, and nails. The protein consists of 473 amino acids and has a molecular weight of approximately 50 kDa . It forms heterodimers with type II keratins, such as KRT6A and KRT6B, to create a filamentous network within the cytoplasm of epithelial cells.
The primary function of Cytokeratin 16 is to provide structural support to epithelial cells. It helps maintain the integrity of the skin and other epithelial tissues by forming a dense network of intermediate filaments. Additionally, Cytokeratin 16 plays a role in the regulation of cellular processes such as proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis.
Mutations in the KRT16 gene are associated with several skin disorders, including:
Recombinant Cytokeratin 16 is produced using various expression systems, such as Escherichia coli and wheat germ . The recombinant protein is often tagged with His or GST tags to facilitate purification and detection. It is used in research to study the protein’s structure, function, and interactions with other cellular components.
Recombinant Cytokeratin 16 is utilized in several applications, including: