Keratinization: From Physiology to Pathology

Keratins are universal indicators of epithelium specificity. They are an important tool in molecular progression of certain diseases, their embryological development and lineage. Different types of keratin and their associated proteins serve as important markers of differentiation thus aiding in diagnosis of various pathological conditions which may manifest in skin or oral cavity or both. Thus, an in-depth knowledge of these profile markers is essential for a pathologist.