Keratin 16 (KRT16) is a type I intermediate filament protein encoded by the *KRT16* gene, primarily expressed in stratified epithelia, including the skin, nails, and mucosal tissues. It plays a critical role in maintaining epithelial integrity, cell proliferation, and stress response. KRT16 is often co-expressed with KRT6 in hyperproliferative or damaged epithelia, forming a heterodimer that stabilizes the cytoskeleton during tissue repair or inflammation. Dysregulation of KRT16 is linked to pathological conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and pachyonychia congenita (a genetic disorder causing thickened nails and palmoplantar keratoderma). It is also implicated in tumorigenesis, particularly in squamous cell carcinomas and certain adenocarcinomas.
KRT16 antibodies are essential tools for detecting this protein in research and diagnostics. They are widely used in immunohistochemistry (IHC), immunofluorescence (IF), and Western blotting to study its expression patterns in normal vs. diseased tissues. Commercially available antibodies target specific epitopes, enabling precise localization and quantification. Recent studies explore KRT16's role in immune modulation, wound healing, and cancer metastasis, highlighting its potential as a biomarker or therapeutic target. Validation of KRT16 antibodies ensures specificity and reproducibility, crucial for advancing understanding of epithelial biology and associated disorders.