The function of KRT5 (keratin 5, ENSG00000186081) is as follows. Structural component of intermediate filaments in basal keratinocytes of stratified epithelia. Together with its obligate type I partner KRT14, contributes to the formation of the keratin intermediate filament network that provides mechanical stability and resilience to the basal layer of the epidermis (PubMed:1372711, PubMed:1694855). Regulates the recruitment of Langerhans cells to the epidermis, potentially by modulation of the abundance of macrophage chemotactic cytokines, macrophage inflammatory cytokines and CTNND1 localization in keratinocytes (By similarity). {ECO:0000250|UniProtKB:Q922U2, ECO:0000269|PubMed:1372711, ECO:0000269|PubMed:1694855}.