TLDR The outer layer of Merino wool is rich in sulfur proteins, making it resistant to damage.
The study characterized the exocuticle a-layer proteins of Merino wool, which served as a resistant barrier to fiber degradation. Through proteolytic and chemical digestion, the a-layer was found to be enriched with proteins, particularly high in cysteine and glycine. Analysis revealed similarities to the Allwörden membrane and identified peptides with strong homologies to ultra-high sulfur proteins in sheep wool and human hair. This supported the presence of sulfur-rich proteins in the a-layer, contributing to its resistance properties.
117 citations
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November 2006 in “Experimental Dermatology” The article concludes that the wool follicle is a valuable model for studying tissue interactions and has potential for genetic improvements in wool production.
53 citations
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June 2005 in “The journal of investigative dermatology/Journal of investigative dermatology” KAP genes show significant genetic variability, but its impact on hair traits is unclear.
62 citations
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January 2004 in “The journal of investigative dermatology/Journal of investigative dermatology” A second domain of high sulfur KAP genes on chromosome 21q23 is crucial for hair structure.
199 citations
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January 2004 in “The International Journal of Developmental Biology” Hair follicle growth and development are controlled by specific genes and molecular signals.
100 citations
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December 2002 in “Journal of biological chemistry/The Journal of biological chemistry” Researchers mapped and categorized specific keratin-associated protein genes on human chromosome 21q22.1.
98 citations
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June 2001 in “Journal of biological chemistry/The Journal of biological chemistry” A cluster of sulfur-rich hair protein genes was found on chromosome 17.
228 citations
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January 1997 in “Birkhäuser Basel eBooks” Keratin proteins and their genes are crucial for hair growth and structure.
252 citations
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January 1991 in “Electron Microscopy Reviews”
35 citations
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April 2014 in “Journal of proteomics” Feed restriction in sheep leads to finer wool fibers but may reduce wool quality.
10 citations
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January 2010 in “International journal of trichology” Keratin-associated proteins are part of the developing hair fiber cuticle.
19 citations
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January 2009 in “International review of cell and molecular biology” Hair's strength and flexibility come from its protein structure and molecular interactions.
199 citations
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January 2004 in “The International Journal of Developmental Biology” Hair follicle growth and development are controlled by specific genes and molecular signals.
Water and fatty acids affect hair's surface differently based on hair damage, and models can help understand hair-cosmetic interactions.
