Cadherin 26 (CDH26)

Cadherin 26 is a transmembrane cell adhesion molecule belonging to the cadherin family of proteins, characterized by calcium-dependent, homophilic, and integrin-mediated cell-cell adhesion[2][3]. It is predominantly expressed in epithelial tissues, especially in the gastrointestinal tract and airway epithelium[2][4]. CDH26 mediates interactions with catenin family members (e.g., alpha-, beta-, and p120-catenin) and binds alpha integrins such as α4 and αE, facilitating epithelial barrier integrity and modulating immune cell migration and activation. CDH26 expression is heightened during allergic and inflammatory responses, and it has emerged as both a structural and immunomodulatory molecule, with potential for therapeutic targeting via fusion proteins to suppress T-helper cell activation[1][2][3]. It is implicated in diseases involving epithelial dysfunction and allergic inflammation, but therapeutic targeting in humans is still investigational.

Other names

VR20CAD26_HUMAN

Modulation of leukocyte adhesion and activation; Potential immunosuppressive effect through Fc fusion protein (CDH26-Fc)