June 2026 in “Communications Biology” In this study, researchers found that the cornification process in the nuptial pads of Xenopus frogs involves the expression of the type II hair keratin homolog, krt59, and is regulated by the transcription factor hoxc13, showing similarities to mammalian hair evolution.
83 citations
,
February 1991 in “Development” This study found that Fos protein expression is closely linked to epithelial cell differentiation, particularly during cornification and cell death, with overexpression observed in keratinization-blocked mutant epidermis.
8 citations
,
January 2023 in “International journal of molecular sciences” This study reveals that transglutaminase activity is widespread in integumentary structures of mammals and birds, suggesting it plays a significant role in the cornification of hard skin appendages like nails and feathers.
17 citations
,
June 2012 in “Journal of experimental zoology. Part B, Molecular and developmental evolution” This review explores theories on the evolution of hair from synapsid scales and glands, proposing mechanisms supported by comparative studies, but reports no new experimental findings.
2 citations
,
September 2010 in “Acta Ophthalmologica” The study concluded that all parts of the normal human Meibomian gland ductal system show signs of early keratinisation, supporting the idea that these glands are akin to "hair follicles without a hair shaft.