Cadherin-7 (CDH7)

Cadherin-7 is a calcium-dependent cell–cell adhesion glycoprotein belonging to the type II classical cadherin family within the cadherin superfamily. It mediates cell–cell binding predominantly through homophilic interactions and plays pivotal roles during development and tissue morphogenesis, particularly in the nervous system and notochord. Cadherin-7 expression is tightly regulated spatially and temporally during embryogenesis, where it contributes to the establishment of tissue boundaries, neuronal layering, and neural circuit formation. In vertebrates, it has essential roles in notochord development, neural crest migration, and maintenance of tissue integrity. Aberrant expression or mutations in the CDH7 gene are associated with several pathological conditions, including certain cancers (such as pulmonary sarcomatoid carcinoma and melanoma), neuropsychiatric disorders (including risk factors for bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder), and specific developmental abnormalities. While its interactions and direct targeting by therapeutic agents are not well established, CDH7 serves as an important model for studying adhesion-mediated processes in development and disease[1][2][3].

Other names

Cadherin-7CDH7CDH7L1cadherin 7cadherin 7, type 2