Keratin Production and Its Applications: Current and Future Perspective

Keratin is a global class of biological material, which represents a group of cysteine-rich filament-forming proteins. They serve as a shielding layer for the epidermal appendages like nails, claws, beak, hair, wool, horns, and feathers. These proteins are further subdivided into two different class based on their secondary structure: α-keratin and β-keratin. Keratin is insoluble in hot or cold water; this unique property helps to prevent their digestion by proteolytic enzymes. Additionally, their complex hierarchical-like filament-matrix structure at nanoscale and the polypeptide chains create a robust wall for protection against heat stress, pathogen invasions (particularly through skin), mechanical damage, etc. In this review, we are trying to attempt a linear focus in the direction of structure, function, extraction of keratin, and its industrial applications.