TLDR The 3D structure of a key hair protein was modeled, revealing specific helical structures and stabilization features.
The study focused on characterizing the high glycine-tyrosine (HGT) protein KAP8.1, a key component of keratin associated proteins (KAPs) in human hair, through computational modeling and experimental methods. The researchers modeled the 3D structure of the 63-residue KAP8.1 protein, revealing it to have four poly-proline II helical structures stabilized by two cysteine disulphide bridges. Both computer simulations and spectroscopic studies (Raman, IR, and vibrational circular dichroism) confirmed the presence of β-sheet and PPII structures. This work provided a foundational model for further studies on the glassy state physics of hair, aiming to understand how hair properties can be influenced by environmental factors and additives.
46 citations,
June 2013 in “Journal of structural biology” High glycine–tyrosine keratin-associated proteins help make hair strong and maintain its shape.
254 citations,
January 2007 in “Chemical Society Reviews” Hair is a complex protein fiber with unique properties useful for developing hair products.
71 citations,
August 2005 in “The journal of investigative dermatology. Symposium proceedings/The Journal of investigative dermatology symposium proceedings” Hair keratin-associated proteins are essential for strong hair, with over 80 genes showing specific patterns and variations among people.
2 citations,
January 2017 in “Folia biologica” The KRTAP7-1 gene is very similar across different cattle and yak breeds and likely plays a role in hair strength and shape.
10 citations,
November 2021 in “International journal of molecular sciences” Sheep and goat hair fibers are complex due to keratin-associated proteins, which are important for fiber properties and growth.
62 citations,
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.
January 2023 in “Czech Journal of Animal Science” Proteins influence the quality and traits of cashmere goat fleece, affecting hair strength and diameter.
December 2023 in “The journal of physical chemistry. B (1997 : Online)” Human hair keratin might be good for filtering out harmful substances from water.
