What is the Difference Between Alpha Keratin and Beta Keratin?

Alpha keratin and beta keratin are two forms of structural proteins found in different groups of animals. The main differences between them include their occurrence, structure, and function.

• Occurrence: Alpha keratin is found in all vertebrates, including mammals, while beta keratin is found exclusively in reptiles and birds.
• Structure: Alpha keratin has an alpha-helical coiled coil structure, while beta keratin has twisted beta sheets. Beta keratin is harder than alpha keratin.
• Function: Alpha keratin provides mammals with waterproofing and prevention of desiccation. Beta keratin is present in reptile skin, providing waterproofing and prevention of desiccation. In birds, the scales, beaks, claws, and feathers contain beta keratin.

In summary, alpha keratin is a structural protein found in mammals, while beta keratin is found in reptiles and birds. They have different structures and functions, with alpha keratin providing mammals with waterproofing and beta keratin adding rigidity to reptilian skin and bird feathers.

Comparative Table: Alpha Keratin vs Beta Keratin

Alpha keratin and beta keratin are two different types of keratin proteins found in the animal kingdom. Here is a table comparing their differences:

In summary, alpha keratin is a fibrous, structural protein found in mammals, while beta keratin is a structural protein found in reptiles and birds. Alpha keratin provides waterproofing and prevents desiccation in mammals, while beta keratin adds rigidity to reptile skin and also provides waterproofing and prevents desiccation.