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Keratin

Synonym(s)

  • cytokeratin

Definition(s)

Family of cystine-rich proteins that tend to aggregate in side-to- side fashion, forming tough filaments or sheets; main constituent of intermediate filaments in epidermal tissues.

Definition from: CRISP Thesaurus via Unified Medical Language SystemThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference. at the National Library of Medicine

Any of various sulfur-containing fibrous proteins that form the chemical basis of horny epidermal tissues (as hair and nails) and are typically not digested by enzymes of the gastrointestinal tract.

Definition from: Merriam-Webster's Medical DictionaryThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference. by Merriam-Webster Inc.

See also Understanding Medical Terminology.

 
Published: May 20, 2013