Cell adhesion molecule 4 (CADM4)

Cell adhesion molecule 4 (CADM4) is a single-pass transmembrane glycoprotein belonging to the immunoglobulin superfamily of cell adhesion molecules. It plays key roles in intercellular adhesion in both the nervous system and epithelial tissues. In the peripheral nervous system, CADM4 is expressed by myelinating Schwann cells and interacts with axonal molecules such as CADM3, coordinating axon-glia recognition and the architecture of the myelin sheath. Disruption of CADM4 leads to abnormal myelin features and impaired nerve conduction, and its downregulation is implicated in hereditary neuropathies and other demyelinating diseases[1][2]. In epithelial and exocrine tissues, CADM4 supports cell–cell adhesion and acts as a tumor suppressor; diminished expression is correlated with greater malignancy and poorer clinical outcomes in several cancers[1][3]. CADM4 also modulates intracellular signaling pathways—such as those involving VEGFR2 and the ErbB2/ErbB3 receptors—affecting contact inhibition, cell migration, and proliferation[1][3]. CADM4 localization and function are tightly regulated, including by specific palmitoylation that stabilizes its presence on the plasma membrane—a process that is critical for myelination[2]. Overall, CADM4 is an important molecular regulator in tissue development, maintenance, and pathology.

Other names

CADM4IGSF4CNECL4TSLL2SynCAM4Immunoglobulin superfamily member 4CNectin-like protein 4TSLC1-like protein 2TSLC1-like 2Necl-4

No approved drugs or therapeutics are known to target CADM4 directly. Its known mechanisms pertain to cell adhesion and myelination regulation, not as a drug target