Cytokeratin 17, also known as Keratin 17 or KRT17, is a type I intermediate filament protein that plays a crucial role in the structural integrity of epithelial cells. It is predominantly found in the nail beds, hair follicles, sebaceous glands, and other epidermal appendages . The recombinant form of this protein, referred to as Human Recombinant Cytokeratin 17, is produced using various expression systems for research and diagnostic purposes.
Cytokeratin 17 is composed of 432 amino acids and has a predicted molecular weight of approximately 73.26 kDa . The protein is expressed in wheat germ and is suitable for applications such as SDS-PAGE, ELISA, and Western Blotting . The sequence of Cytokeratin 17 includes several glycine-rich regions that contribute to its structural properties.
Cytokeratin 17 is involved in the formation and maintenance of various skin appendages. It plays a significant role in determining the shape and orientation of hair, as well as in the structural integrity of nail beds and sebaceous glands . The protein is also implicated in cellular processes such as proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis.
Mutations in the KRT17 gene can lead to several genetic disorders, including Jackson-Lawler type pachyonychia congenita and steatocystoma multiplex . These conditions are characterized by abnormalities in the skin, nails, and hair, highlighting the importance of Cytokeratin 17 in maintaining epithelial tissue integrity.
Recombinant Human Cytokeratin 17 is widely used in research to study its role in epithelial biology and related diseases. It is utilized in various assays, including SDS-PAGE, ELISA, and Western Blotting, to investigate protein expression, function, and interactions . The recombinant protein is also valuable in the development of diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies for skin-related disorders.