Neurokeratin is a term that combines "neuro" and "keratin," referring to a type of protein found in the nervous and integumentary systems. To break down the spelling, "neuro" is pronounced as /ˈnjʊərəʊ/ which means relating to nerves or the nervous system, while "keratin" is pronounced as /ˈkɛrətɪn/ which refers to a fibrous protein found in hair, nails, and hooves. Combining these two words, neurokeratin is pronounced as /njʊərəʊˈkɛrətɪn/.
Neurokeratin is a term used in medical and biological fields to refer to a specific protein found in the nervous system, particularly in the neurons or nerve cells. It is derived from the combination of two words: "neuro," indicating its prominent presence in neural tissues, and "keratin," a family of fibrous structural proteins known for their strength and protective function in various organs and tissues throughout the body.
Neurokeratin is primarily found in the axons or nerve fibers of neurons, where it plays a crucial role in maintaining cellular structure and function. It forms a protective sheath around the axons, providing insulation and support that aids in the efficient transmission of electrical signals or nerve impulses. This insulation prevents signal loss and cross-talk between neighboring neurons, ensuring the accurate and rapid flow of information within the nervous system.
Furthermore, neurokeratin contributes to the overall structural integrity of neurons, assisting in their resistance to mechanical stress and damage. It helps neurons withstand external forces and enables them to sustain their functional capacity, making it an essential component for the proper functioning of the nervous system.
Understanding the roles and properties of neurokeratin is significant in researching and comprehending various neurodegenerative diseases and neurological disorders, as any disruptions or abnormalities in its production or structure can have detrimental effects on nerve cell function and overall neural communication.
A horny substance forming the supporting framework of the medullary substance of a medullated nerve-fiber.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "neurokeratin" is a combination of two parts: "neuro" and "keratin".
1. "Neuro" is derived from the Greek word "neuron" which means "nerve". It is commonly used in scientific terminology to refer to anything related to the nervous system.
2. "Keratin" comes from the Greek word "kéras" meaning "horn" or "hoof". It is a fibrous structural protein found in the outer layer of the skin, hair, nails, and other similar structures in animals.
By combining these two terms, "neurokeratin" refers to a form or type of keratin specifically associated with nerve-related structures, such as certain cells or tissues within the nervous system.