keratose
The degradation product of KERATIN . During the
action of the lime liquors on the epithelial cells
of the epidermis and sebaceous glands, degradation
products are formed which remain in the hides and
skins after unhairing, scudding, and washing. They
are present, in the form of viscous solutions or
jellies adhering to the structures of the
thermostat layer, in the region just under the
grain surface. They are not readily visible under
the microscope, but are precipitated as flocculent
masses upon contact with acid solutions. They are
removed by the action of enzymes during BATING , and, if not
properly removed, will result in a grainy surface
that is thick, spongy, and irregular, suggesting
the presence of keratose precipitated in the grain
layer. (306 , 363 )
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