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Cadherins in cutaneous biology
F Furukawa1, M Takigawa, N Matsuyoshi
1Department of Dermatology, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Japan.
The Journal of Dermatology
|November 1, 1994
Summary
Cadherins, like E-cadherin and P-cadherin, are crucial for skin development and function. Their altered expression is linked to skin diseases and cancer metastasis, highlighting their role in cell adhesion.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Cell Biology
- Oncology
Background:
- Classical cadherins, E-cadherin and P-cadherin, are key in cutaneous biology.
- Their roles in skin morphogenesis, keratinocyte differentiation, and cancer metastasis are critical.
- E-cadherin is found on epidermal cells, while P-cadherin is specific to basal cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the multifaceted roles of cadherins in skin biology.
- To discuss the involvement of cadherins in skin development and disease.
- To explore the connection between cadherin expression and cancer metastasis.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on cadherin function in cutaneous biology.
- Analysis of ultrastructural studies on cadherin localization in keratinocytes.
- Examination of clinical data on cadherin expression in skin diseases and cancers.
Main Results:
- P-cadherin expression is spatiotemporally controlled during human skin development.
- Reduced E-cadherin expression is observed in pemphigus, Darier's disease, squamous cell carcinoma, and Paget's disease.
- Elevated soluble E-cadherins are detected in various skin diseases and metastatic cancers.
Conclusions:
- Cadherins play significant roles in cellular connections, impacting cancer and metastasis.
- Altered cadherin expression is a biomarker for several skin conditions and malignancies.
- Further research into cadherin function may offer therapeutic targets for skin diseases and cancer.