KRT8

Structural component of intermediate filaments in simple epithelial cells. Together with its obligate type I partner KRT18, contributes to the formation of the keratin intermediate filament network that provides mechanical stability and resilience to epithelial cells. Also involved in maintaining epithelial integrity and protecting cells from non-mechanical stress, such as apoptosis (By similarity). Also required for ARHGEF40-mediated actin stress fiber formation and tensional force-induced stress fiber formation and reinforcement. In striated muscle, together with KRT19, may contribute to linking the contractile apparatus to dystrophin at the costameres..

Function from UniProtKB (P05787), read 2026-09-23. CC BY 4.0.