Structure-based models of cadherin-mediated cell adhesion: the evolution continues

AW Koch, KL Manzur, W Shan - Cellular and molecular life sciences, 2004 - Springer
AW Koch, KL Manzur, W Shan
Cellular and molecular life sciences, 2004Springer
Cadherins are glycoproteins that are responsible for homophilic, Ca 2+-dependent cell-cell
adhesion and play crucial roles in many cellular adhesion processes ranging from
embryogenesis to the formation of neuronal circuits in the central nervous system. Many
different experimental approaches have been used to unravel the molecular basis for
cadherin-mediated adhesion. In particular, several high-resolution structures have provided
models for cadherin-cadherin interactions that are illuminative in many respects yet …
Abstract
Cadherins are glycoproteins that are responsible for homophilic, Ca2+-dependent cell-cell adhesion and play crucial roles in many cellular adhesion processes ranging from embryogenesis to the formation of neuronal circuits in the central nervous system. Many different experimental approaches have been used to unravel the molecular basis for cadherin-mediated adhesion. In particular, several high-resolution structures have provided models for cadherin-cadherin interactions that are illuminative in many respects yet contradictory in others. This review gives an overview of the structural studies of cadherins over the past decade while focusing on recent developments that reconcile some of the earlier findings.
Springer