Desmoglein 2 receptor (DSG2)

Desmoglein 2 (DSG2) is a transmembrane cadherin-family protein that acts as a cell surface receptor and mediates strong cell–cell adhesion in epithelial tissue. It serves as the primary high-affinity entry receptor for adenovirus type 3 and other species B adenoviruses. Its extracellular cadherin domain 3 (EC3) is critical for virus binding, with an unusual 1:1 stoichiometry (one DSG2 per trimeric fiber knob), distinguishing it from other adenovirus–receptor interactions[1][2]. DSG2 is aberrantly expressed in some cancers and is being exploited for adenovirus-based targeted gene therapy.

Other names

DSG2Desmoglein-2Cadherin family member DSC2

For adenovirus-based therapies: Viral vector binds DSG2, mediating entry into cancer cells expressing DSG2. Use in oncolytic virotherapy and gene delivery approaches.