A Group of Type I Keratin Genes on Human Chromosome 17: Characterization and Expression

The study characterized the human type I keratins K16 and K14, which were coexpressed in various epithelial tissues, including hair follicles. Researchers identified two genes for K16 and three for K14 on chromosome 17, noting that these genes were tightly linked and part of recently duplicated genome segments. Despite strong homology between the two K16 genes, only one encoded a functional protein capable of forming keratin filaments, likely due to a weaker promoter in the non-functional gene. A polyclonal antiserum was developed to specifically recognize the functional K16 gene product, confirming its expression in human tissues.