Krtap16: Characterization of a New Hair Keratin-Associated Protein Gene Complex on Mouse Chromosome 16 and Evidence for Regulation by Hoxc13

The study characterized the Krtap16 gene complex on mouse chromosome 16, analogous to a human KAP gene complex, and found it to be expressed in the hair shaft's cortical region during hair development. Expression decreased during the hair follicle's resting stage, indicating hair cycle-dependent regulation. The research provided evidence for the regulatory role of the Hoxc13 transcription factor, suggesting it influences Krtap16 gene expression. This was supported by electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSAs) and immunohistochemical analyses. The findings contributed to understanding the genetic and structural diversity of KAP genes and their regulation in hair follicle development.