KRT2 (keratin 2) is a type II keratin that plays essential roles in epidermal structure and barrier function. It forms heterodimers with type I keratin K10 to create intermediate filaments in suprabasal keratinocytes, serving as a key structural component of the cytoskeleton 1. KRT2 is particularly prominent in plantar skin epidermis, where it works alongside K10 to maintain mechanical resilience 1. The protein contributes to terminal cornification and is associated with keratinocyte activation, proliferation, and keratinization processes 2. Loss of KRT2 function leads to superficial epidermolytic ichthyosis, a keratinization disorder characterized by superficial blisters, erosions, and progressive hyperkeratosis 23. KRT2 mutations can cause ichthyosis bullosa of Siemens and have been identified in epidermolytic nevus 2. Clinical studies demonstrate that KRT2 downregulation occurs in various pathological conditions including gastric cancer tongue coating and vesicular hand eczema, indicating its importance in maintaining epithelial integrity 45. The protein has also emerged as a potential biomarker in psoriasis and chr12 periodontitis 67.