CDH13

CDH13

CDH13 (Cadherin 13) is a gene that encodes a member of the cadherin superfamily, which are calcium-dependent cell-cell adhesion proteins. Unlike most cadherins, CDH13 is not a transmembrane protein but is instead anchored to the cell membrane via a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchor. This unique feature allows CDH13 to play distinct roles in cellular processes.

Structure

CDH13, also known as T-cadherin, is characterized by its lack of a transmembrane domain, which differentiates it from classical cadherins. The protein consists of five extracellular cadherin repeats, a GPI-anchor site, and a short cytoplasmic tail. The GPI-anchor allows CDH13 to associate with lipid rafts in the cell membrane, influencing its signaling capabilities.

Function

CDH13 is involved in a variety of biological processes, including:

• Cell Adhesion: As a member of the cadherin family, CDH13 contributes to cell-cell adhesion, although its mechanism is distinct due to its GPI-anchor.
• Signal Transduction: CDH13 is implicated in signaling pathways that regulate cell proliferation, migration, and survival.
• Vascular Biology: CDH13 is expressed in endothelial cells and is involved in the regulation of vascular integrity and angiogenesis.
• Neurobiology: In the nervous system, CDH13 is associated with neuronal development and synaptic plasticity.

Clinical Significance

CDH13 has been studied in the context of several diseases:

• Cancer: Altered expression of CDH13 has been observed in various cancers, including breast, lung, and prostate cancer. It is thought to act as a tumor suppressor, and its downregulation is associated with increased tumor aggressiveness.
• Cardiovascular Disease: CDH13 is involved in the regulation of vascular function and has been linked to atherosclerosis and hypertension.
• Neuropsychiatric Disorders: Variants in the CDH13 gene have been associated with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other neuropsychiatric conditions.

Research

Ongoing research is focused on understanding the precise molecular mechanisms by which CDH13 influences cell behavior and its potential as a therapeutic target. Studies are exploring its role in cancer metastasis, cardiovascular health, and brain function.

See Also

• Cadherin
• Cell Adhesion
• Signal Transduction

External Links

• CDH13 Gene - NCBI
• CDH13 Gene - GeneCards