Genetic and Biochemical Aspects of the Synthesis of Keratin by Hair Follicles

The document discussed the genetic and biochemical aspects of keratin synthesis in hair follicles, highlighting the role of gene expression in the differentiation of hair bulb matrix cells. It was noted that keratin genes are organized in clusters within the genome, specifically in families that span approximately 5–10 kb. Two families of intermediate hair protein genes and five families of keratin-associated protein genes were mapped, suggesting the presence of "global" regulator domains that could control their expression. This research provided insights into the complex genetic regulation required for normal hair growth and keratin production.