keratin
/'kerətin/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A fibrous scleroprotein: Keratin is a tough, insoluble structural protein that forms the main constituent of hair, feathers, nails, horns, claws, hooves, and the outer layer of human skin (the epidermis). It is a key component in many protective and hard tissues in vertebrates.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- Hair and nails are primarily composed of keratin.
- The bird's feathers are strong because they contain keratin.
- A keratin deficiency can lead to brittle nails and hair.
Advanced Usage
Keratinization (or Cornification): The biological process by which epithelial cells become filled with keratin protein, die, and form a tough, protective layer.
- The keratinization of skin cells creates a barrier against the environment.
Keratinocyte: The predominant cell type in the epidermis, which produces keratin.
- Keratinocytes migrate to the skin's surface as they produce more keratin.
Variants and Related Words
Keratinous (adj): Having the nature of or containing keratin.
- The rhinoceros has a keratinous horn.
Keratosis (n): A growth of keratin on the skin, such as a callus or wart.
- Actinic keratosis is a precancerous skin condition caused by sun damage.
Synonyms
- Scleroprotein: A simple protein (like keratin) that is insoluble in water and serves a structural function.
- Fibrous protein: A protein with a long, filamentous structure, providing support and strength.
Related Phrases and Compounds
- Alpha-keratin: The type of keratin found in mammals, constituting hair, nails, horns, and the epidermis.
- Beta-keratin: A tougher form of keratin found in reptiles, birds, and some other animals, constituting scales, feathers, and claws.
- Keratin treatment: A cosmetic hair treatment that uses formulations containing keratin to smooth and straighten hair.
- She got a keratin treatment to tame her frizzy hair.
Noun
- a fibrous scleroprotein that occurs in the outer layer of the skin and in horny tissues such as hair, feathers, nails, and hooves