Dermatophytes are unique among fungi in their ability to produce keratinase enzymes, which allow them to digest and utilize keratin as their primary nutrient source. Keratin is the main structural protein found in the stratum corneum of the skin, hair, and nails, explaining why dermatophytes are restricted to these superficial, keratinized tissues. Cellulose is a plant cell wall component. Chitin is a component of fungal cell walls and arthropod exoskeletons. Melanin is a pigment found in skin and hair, but it is not a primary nutrient source for dermatophytes.
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