PH Dependence of the Coiled-Coil Structure of Keratin Intermediate Filament in Human Hair by 13C NMR Spectroscopy and the Mechanism of Its Disruption

February 1998 in “ Polymer journal ”

Naoki Nishikawa, Yoshiaki Tanizawa, Shoichi Tanaka, Yasunobu Horiguchi, Hitomi Matsuno, Tetsuo Asakura

keratin intermediate filament coiled-coil structure 13C NMR spectroscopy pH dependence charged amino acids hydrophobic amino acids ion-pairing hydrophobic interactions keratin NMR spectroscopy pH levels amino acids

TLDR Keratin structure in hair is stable at pH 5-6 but disrupts between pH 6-7.

The study used 13C NMR spectroscopy to investigate the pH dependence of the coiled-coil structure of keratin intermediate filament (KIF) in human hair. It was found that the coiled-coil structure remained stable at pH 5.0 and 6.0 but was disrupted between pH 6.0 and 7.0, leading to a random coil structure. This disruption was marked by increased peak intensities of side chains from charged amino acids (Glu, Asp, Lys, Arg) and hydrophobic amino acids (Leu, Ile), indicating weakened ion-pairing and hydrophobic interactions. The coiled-coil structure could be restored by readjusting the pH back to 6.0, suggesting that both types of interactions are crucial for its stability.

View this study on nature.com →

Discuss this study in the Community →

Related Community Posts Join

6 / 104 results

community Keratin fibers vs. Gossypium Herbaceum Hair fibers

in Product 1 upvotes 3 months 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 9 months 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 31 upvotes 9 months 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 3 years ago

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

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

in Product 4 upvotes 7 months ago

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

community Hair Loss Breakthrough: Keratin Microsphere Gel Initiates Hair Regrowth in Days by Directly Targeting Follicles and Boosting Gene Expression - Gilmore Health News

in Treatment 463 upvotes 9 months ago

A new hair loss treatment involving Keratin Microsphere Gel is discussed, with skepticism and jokes about its effectiveness and comparisons to other treatments. Users are doubtful and make light of the situation, referencing past disappointments and the study's focus on mice.

Related Research

1 / 1 results

PH Dependence of the Coiled-Coil Structure of Keratin Intermediate Filament in Human Hair by 13C NMR Spectroscopy and the Mechanism of Its Disruption

research PH Dependence of the Coiled-Coil Structure of Keratin Intermediate Filament in Human Hair by 13C NMR Spectroscopy and the Mechanism of Its Disruption

7 citations, February 1998 in “Polymer journal”

Keratin structure in hair is stable at pH 5-6 but disrupts between pH 6-7.