Types I and II Keratin Intermediate Filaments

The document reviewed the roles and characteristics of types I and II keratin intermediate filaments, which were proteins expressed in epithelial cells and encoded by 54 conserved genes. These keratins played crucial roles in maintaining cellular integrity, regulating cell growth and migration, and protecting against apoptosis. Their functions were regulated by posttranslational modifications and associated proteins. Genetic alterations in keratin sequences were linked to disorders characterized by cell fragility or altered tissue homeostasis, and keratin mutations or misregulation were risk factors for various diseases. The study highlighted the importance of keratins in both mechanical and nonmechanical cellular functions and their potential as markers in pathology.