The nail plate is primarily composed of which substance?

The nail plate is primarily composed of keratin, which is a type of protein that is essential for the structure and resilience of nails. Keratin is a fibrous structural protein that forms the basis of not just nails but also hair and the outer layer of skin. Its toughness and durability make it an ideal component for protecting the sensitive tissues underneath the nail plate.

Nail plates being primarily made of keratin means they can also serve to protect the tips of fingers and toes from injuries and trauma while providing support for the surrounding skin. The composition of the nail plate as keratin ensures that it maintains its shape and integrity, which is crucial for functionality.

Other substances listed, such as mucus, do not have any role in the structure of the nail plate, as they are fluid secretions, not proteins. Dead tissues could refer to the cells that may be found above the nail matrix, but they are not the primary component of the nail plate itself. Anthrax, being a type of bacteria, is unrelated to the makeup of nails entirely. Thus, understanding the primary composition of the nail plate as keratin is essential for anyone studying nail biology and practices within cosmetology.