Extraction of keratin particles as intact protein sequences from chicken feathers and their characterization.

ABSTRACT: Keratins are ubiquitously occurring proteins, which are the structural basis of e.g. hairs, nails, and even skin. In detail, the Stratum corneum (SC) barrier function depends on the keratin-filled corneocytes and the surrounding lipid matrix. Our focus was on keratins as artificial substituents and model substances for/on damaged or irritated SC with limited barrier properties. We were able to extract full-sequenced, intact fibrous proteins from chicken feathers using a urea and L-cysteine-based extraction method, with the intention to avoid the application of irritating sodium dodecyl sulfate and final keratin precipitation. Keratin particles with a high degree of water-solubility were received. Typical characteristics of feather keratins were further verified: FT-IR technique revealed th

SUBMITTER: Chuttke J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12861210 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature