Final answer:
The claim that hair follicle cells and nail root cells express the exact same keratin as epidermal cells is false. While they all produce keratin, the types of keratin vary. Hair and nails have hard keratin, unlike the softer keratin in the epidermis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that hair follicle cells and nail root cells express the exact same keratin as epidermal cells is False. Hair follicles and nails do produce keratin, the same type of structural protein found in the epidermis, but the specific types of keratin can vary depending on the part of the body and the function of the tissue. Hair and nails contain hard keratin, which is more durable and has a different composition than the softer keratin found in the epidermis.
Both hair and nails originate from epidermal tissue and grow as a result of keratinocyte cells in the hair matrix and nail root producing keratin. These cells are comparable to the ones found in the epidermis. However, the specific keratin proteins may have different amino acid sequences, which contribute to their unique characteristics suitable to the function of each tissue type.
The hair matrix at the base of the hair follicle is where new keratinocytes differentiating into cells form the hair shaft. Similarly, growth at the nail root, which is embedded deeply in the epidermis, gives rise to the nail body. These growth processes are supported by a constant supply of nutrients and growth factors. Over time, as the keratinocytes migrate and become part of the hair shaft or nail body, they produce more keratin leading to the growth of the hair or nail.