Substance common in skin, hair and nail is?
**Core Concept**
Keratin is a structural protein that forms the main component of skin, hair, and nails. It is produced by keratinocytes, a type of epithelial cell found in the skin, and is secreted into the extracellular space where it undergoes cross-linking to form a strong, fibrous structure.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is keratin because it is the primary protein responsible for the mechanical strength and rigidity of skin, hair, and nails. Keratin is composed of amino acids such as cysteine, serine, and glycine, which form disulfide bonds that contribute to its stability. In the skin, keratin is produced in the stratum basale and stratum spinosum layers, where it is then secreted into the extracellular space and undergoes cross-linking to form a strong, fibrous network.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** does not contain keratin, but rather a different type of protein or substance.
**Option B:** is incorrect because it is not a protein found in skin, hair, and nails.
**Option C:** is not a correct answer because it is not a protein that forms the main component of skin, hair, and nails.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Keratin is an important protein in the skin, hair, and nails, and abnormalities in keratin production can lead to a range of skin and hair disorders, including ichthyosis, psoriasis, and alopecia.
**Correct Answer:** C.