There isn't one single formula for keratin. Keratin is a family of fibrous structural proteins, not a single molecule with a definitive chemical formula like, for example, water (H₂O). Different types of keratin exist, with variations in their amino acid sequences and consequently, their molecular weights.
Types of Keratin and their Composition
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α-keratin (alpha-keratin): This is a type of keratin found in vertebrates, including humans. Its specific amino acid sequence varies depending on the location in the body (hair, skin, nails, etc.) and the species. Therefore, there is no single formula to represent all α-keratins.
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β-keratin (beta-keratin): This type of keratin is found in reptiles and birds and has a different structure than α-keratin. Again, a specific chemical formula cannot be provided due to variability in amino acid sequences.
The provided references show examples of chemical compounds associated with keratin products or research, but these are not the formula for keratin itself. For instance:
- One reference lists C₂H₂BrClO₂ as the molecular formula for a compound (2-bromo-2-chloroacetic acid), which is an ingredient in some keratin-containing products, but not the formula for keratin protein itself. Another reference lists a CAS number associated with keratin (68238-35-7) but does not provide a chemical formula.
In summary, attempting to provide a single chemical formula for keratin is inaccurate. Keratin's structure is complex and varies, making a universal formula impossible.
