Keratins, which form intermediate filaments, are expressed exclusively in epithelial cells.
Understanding Keratin Expression
According to the research, keratins are specific to a particular cell type:
- Epithelial Cells: These are the only cells, according to the reference, that express keratin proteins (Moll et al. 1982; Steinert, 2001). This is irrespective of which germ layer they came from.
What are Epithelial Cells?
Epithelial cells are a fundamental type of cell that:
- Line the surfaces of the body, both external (skin) and internal (organs).
- Form protective layers and barriers.
- Are involved in secretion and absorption processes.
Practical Insights
Understanding that keratin is specific to epithelial cells can be helpful in several areas:
- Medical Diagnostics: Detecting keratin expression can be a useful marker for identifying epithelial-derived tumors.
- Research: Studying keratin expression helps in understanding the role and function of various types of epithelial tissues.
Specific Examples of Epithelial Cells
These include, but aren't limited to:
- Skin cells (epidermis).
- Cells lining the digestive tract.
- Cells lining blood vessels.
- Cells forming glands.
| Cell Type | Keratin Expression |
|---|---|
| Epithelial Cells | Yes |
| Non-Epithelial Cells | No |
Therefore, when asking about keratin expression, remember that the answer is specifically epithelial cells.
