Keratin proteins in the epithelium of the uterine cervix

Keratin proteins in human cervical squamous epithelium were investigated by the immunofluorescence technique, using the monoclonal keratin antibodies AE1 and AE2. Although the exocervic is covered by a non-keratinizing, histologically homogenous, squamous epithelium, different staining patterns were found within a single histological section. This indicates a regional variation in the maturation pattern of stratified exocervical epithelium. Detection of morphological versus biochemical keratinization in the diagnosis of pathological cervical conditions is discussed.