Keratin Gene Expression in Wool Fiber Development

January 1988

Barry C. Powell, Elizabeth S. Kuczek, Lesley Crocker, Mark E. O’Donnell, George E. Rogers

keratin wool fiber keratin IF type II gene family ortho-cortical cells para-cortical cells gene expression wool follicle

TLDR Only two of the four keratin genes are expressed in wool fibers.

The study investigated keratin gene expression in wool fiber development, focusing on the wool keratin IF type II gene family. Researchers identified four major proteins in this family and isolated four closely-related genes, sequencing two completely and the 5′ ends of the others. Despite the expectation that all four genes would be expressed in wool fibers, analyses showed that only two were expressed in the wool follicle. Preliminary in situ hybridization confirmed the expression of these genes in both ortho- and paracortical cell types of fine Merino wool, highlighting a complex regulation of keratin gene expression during fiber development.

View this study on link.springer.com →

Discuss this study in the Community →

Research cited in this study

3 / 3 results

research Hair Keratin: Composition, Structure and Biogenesis

45 citations , January 1986

research The Cytology and Cytochemistry of the Wool Follicle

90 citations , January 1979 in “International review of cytology”

Wool follicles are complex, involving interactions between different cell types and structures.

research The Histology of Keratin Fibers

56 citations , January 1977

Related Community Posts Join

6 / 172 results

community Keratin fibers vs. Gossypium Herbaceum Hair fibers

in Product 1 upvotes 1 year ago

The conversation is about comparing keratin hair fibers to Gossypium Herbaceum hair fibers for diffuse hair loss. The user prefers keratin fibers for their durability and is seeking a bulk purchase option.

community Keratin microspheres - breakthrough

in Research/Science 13 upvotes 1 year ago

A gel of keratin microspheres promotes hair follicle growth, showing similar effectiveness to minoxidil in mice. The treatment activates hair growth pathways and reduces inflammation, with potential applications in drug delivery for hair-related disorders.

community Discussion: Keratin Microsphere Results

in Treatment 34 upvotes 1 year ago

Keratin microspheres may offer additional mechanisms to combat hair loss compared to minoxidil. The process to create these microspheres is relatively simple and can be done at home with basic equipment.

community Keratin fibers helped me to combat the cosmetic effect of hair loss

in Styling 9 upvotes 5 years ago

Hair loss discussion includes treatments like hinoki tree oil and procyanidin b2. Experiences and effectiveness of these treatments are shared.

community Let's talk keratin products and hair loss

in Styling 2 upvotes 4 months ago

OP is considering using a keratin gel to improve hair quality and is concerned about its safety and visual impact on a slightly balding crown. Users discuss shampoo frequency, with some suggesting less frequent use for better hair health, but OP prefers regular shampoo and conditioner for silky hair.

community Is Biotin or Keratin shampoo better for hair health/growth

in Product 6 upvotes 1 year ago

Biotin and Keratin shampoos are discussed for hair health and growth. Users suggest shampoos alone don't significantly aid hair growth.

Related Research

1 / 1 results

research Keratin 19: Predicted Amino Acid Sequence and Broad Tissue Distribution Suggest It Evolved from Keratinocyte Keratins

238 citations , May 1989 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology”