Loricrin – an overview

Loricrin is a terminally differentiating structural protein comprising more than 70% of the cornified envelope. It contributes to the protective barrier function of the stratum corneum. In vivo, loricrin is expressed inall mammalian stratified epithelia with the highest levels of expression in humid tissues such as newborn epidermis, the epithelia of oral and anal mucosa, esophagus, foreskin, vagina and the epidermal parts of sweat ducts. Loricrin is not expressed in non keratinizing epithelia and its expression at these sites actually represents a defensive or protective mechanismof the body. An insight into this protein- “Loricrin” can shed light to its potential as a marker in the early stages of potentially malignant disorders like oral sub mucous fibrosis and leukoplakia. This compilation has been done by taking into account the existing literature, reviews and original studies on loricrin, a major component of the cornifiedcell envelope, its structure and the alterations that result due to its absence or presence of both the epidermis and the oral mucosa.