Types of Keratin
There are more than 50 forms of keratin in the body. Around 50 percent of them can be found in hair follicles. They are divided into the following main categories:
– Type I: This is the more acidic and smaller form of keratin. They are further divided into two groups working together to ensure the health of epithelial cells.
– Type II: This form is larger than type 1 keratin. They have a neutral pH that can balance out both types’ pairings when they regulate cell activity and synthesize proteins.
– Alpha-keratins: This is an exclusive type of keratin in humans and mammals. They are helical and alpha-keratin.
– Beta-keratins: This form includes polypeptide chains. They can be found only in reptiles and birds. [2]