Stratum corneum cohesion protein

“Stratum corneum cohesion proteins” is not a single molecular target but refers collectively to several structural and adhesion proteins critical for the integrity of the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the epidermis. Key proteins include corneodesmosin (CDSN), desmocollin 1 (DSC1), and desmoglein 1 (DSG1), which are integral components of *corneodesmosomes*—specialized cell junctions linking adjacent corneocytes and maintaining skin barrier cohesion. Their regulated degradation by specific serine proteases (KLK5, KLK7) enables controlled cell shedding (desquamation). Disruption or abnormal proteolysis of these proteins impairs barrier function and is associated with dermatological diseases, including atopic dermatitis and ichthyosis[1][7][3]. Since “stratum corneum cohesion proteins” does not correspond to a unique, singular target but rather a mixture of molecules, this entry is non-canonical and too general for structured database indexing[1][3][7].

Other names

Corneodesmosin (CDSN)desmocollin 1 (DSC1)desmoglein 1 (DSG1)

Proteolysis by serine proteases (KLK5, KLK7) leads to degradation of adhesion proteins (e.g., corneodesmosin), reducing cohesion and allowing desquamation[1][7]