Delta catenin

Delta catenin (CTNND1) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the CTNND1 gene. It is a member of the catenin protein family and plays an important role in cell adhesion and signal transduction. Delta catenin is particularly significant in the nervous system, where it is involved in neuronal signaling and synaptic plasticity.

Function

Delta catenin is part of the cadherin-catenin complex, which is crucial for cell-cell adhesion, a fundamental component of tissue structure and integrity. It interacts with N-cadherin and beta-catenin to regulate cell adhesion and coordinate cell signaling pathways that control cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival. In the nervous system, delta catenin is implicated in the formation and maintenance of synapses, the junctions through which neurons communicate. It plays a role in synaptic plasticity, which is essential for learning and memory.

Structure

The structure of delta catenin includes several ARM repeats (armadillo repeats), which are involved in protein-protein interactions. These repeats allow delta catenin to bind to other proteins within the cadherin-catenin complex and to various signaling molecules. This interaction network is critical for transmitting signals from the cell surface to the nucleus and for regulating gene expression in response to extracellular cues.

Clinical Significance

Alterations in the expression or function of delta catenin have been associated with various diseases, including cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. In cancer, overexpression of delta catenin can lead to increased cell proliferation and migration, contributing to tumor growth and metastasis. In contrast, loss of delta catenin function has been linked to neurodegenerative conditions, where it may contribute to synaptic dysfunction and neuronal loss.

Research

Research on delta catenin continues to uncover its roles in health and disease. Studies are exploring its potential as a therapeutic target in cancer and neurodegenerative diseases, aiming to develop strategies to modulate its expression or function to treat these conditions.

See Also

• Catenin
• Cell adhesion
• Signal transduction
• Synaptic plasticity