Krtap11-1, a hair keratin-associated protein, as a possible crucial element for the physical properties of hair shafts.

Background: The physical properties of the hair are predominantly determined by the assembly of keratin bundles. The keratin-associated proteins (Krtaps) are thought to be involved in keratin bundle assembly, however, the functional role of the individual member still remains largely unknown.

Objective: The aim of this study is to clarify the role of a unique class of Krtaps, Krtap11-1, in the development and physical properties of the hair.

Identification of the C-terminal tail domain of AHF/trichohyalin as the critical site for modulation of the keratin filamentous meshwork in the keratinocyte.

Background: AHF/trichohyalin is a large structural protein abundant in the inner root sheath (IRS) of anagenic hair follicles, which has been thought to mediate the keratin filamentous assembly. However, its functional mechanism is largely unknown.

Objective: This study aimed at the identification of the key domain in AHF for keratin association and the establishment of a plausible mechanism for the modulation of the keratin meshwork.