Keratin, the Protective Protein
In Keratin, the Protective Protein, evolutionary biologist Ben Garrod discusses the importance of keratin, a protein that plays a vital role in the survival of many animals. Keratin is found in skin, hair, and nails and serves protective functions. Learn how keratin is present in different forms across various animals, such as the tough keratin in a horse's hoof, which is similar to a toenail, and the scales of a pangolin, which act like armor. This video is excerpted from BBC’s Secrets of Skin, a documentary series exploring the natural history of the body's largest organ.
Lesson Express
Q: What role does keratin play in animals like horses and pangolins?
A: Keratin helps protect these animals by forming tough, durable structures like hooves and scales.
Q: How does the keratin in a horse’s hoof compare with the keratin in a porcupine’s quill?
A: While both are made of keratin, the quills are sharp and act as a defense mechanism, whereas the horse’s hoof is designed for durability and support.
Q: What is the importance of keratin in animals that don’t have bones or soft tissues, like pangolins?
A: Keratin provides protection and support for animals like pangolins, forming a tough outer layer to protect against predators.
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