keratinize
Form tough protein
To keratinize is to become filled with or converted to keratin—the tough, fibrous protein that forms hair, nails, horns, and the outer layer of skin.
Skin cells keratinize as they migrate toward the surface and die, creating a protective barrier.
The process is keratinization: Excessive keratinization can cause rough, scaly patches.
Pointed animal headgear
- hoofHorny foot covering
- clawCurved animal nail
- nailMetal fastener or keratin plate
- beakHorny avian mouthpart
talon · scale · quill · feather · hair · wool · fur · baleen
Outermost tissue layer
- stratumHorizontal layer of material
- differentiationRecognizing meaningful differences
- epitheliumTissue covering body surfaces
- basalOf the foundation
granules · epidermal · proliferation · cytoskeleton · filaments · cells · tissue · proteins
Hite calcium deposits form
Obstruction preventing passage
- armorProtective combat covering
- shieldHandheld defensive armor
- coatingApplied surface covering
- waterproofImpervious to moisture
impermeable · insulate · seal · skin · hide · covering · sheath · encasement
horn
Pointed animal headgear
beak · talon · scale · quill · feather · hair · wool · fur · baleen · rhinoceros
epidermis
Outermost tissue layer
- stratumHorizontal layer of material
- differentiationRecognizing meaningful differences
- epitheliumTissue covering body surfaces
basal · granules · epidermal · proliferation · cytoskeleton · filaments · cells · tissue · proteins · lamina
calcify
Hite calcium deposits form
stiffen · toughen · thicken · densify · callous · coarsen · roughen
barrier
Obstruction preventing passage
waterproof · impermeable · insulate · seal · skin · hide · covering · sheath · encasement · dermis