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What is the primary structural protein found in the skin?

  1. Elastin

  2. Collagen

  3. Keratin

  4. Fibroin

The correct answer is: Collagen

The primary structural protein found in the skin is collagen. Collagen is essential for maintaining the skin's strength, elasticity, and overall structural integrity. It forms a scaffold that helps to provide support and stability to the skin, making it crucial for wound healing and the overall appearance of youthful skin. Elastin, while it plays a significant role in giving the skin its elasticity and resilience, is not the primary structural protein. Keratin is primarily found in the outermost layer of the skin as well as in hair and nails, serving as a protective protein but not as the main structural element of the skin itself. Fibroin is a protein found in silk and is not typically associated with skin structure. Thus, collagen stands out as the predominant and critical protein in maintaining the skin's architecture.