Hemidesmosome

Hemidesmosomes are multiprotein complexes that mediate the stable adhesion of basal epithelial cells (such as keratinocytes in skin) to the underlying basement membrane[1]. They are composed mainly of integrin α6β4, plectin isoform 1a, CD151, BP230 (BPAG1e), and BP180 (BPAG2, collagen XVII). These complexes form robust links between the keratin cytoskeleton inside basal cells and the extracellular matrix components, especially laminin-332, of the basement membrane[1][3]. Hemidesmosomal integrity is critical for skin barrier function, tissue resilience, and wound healing. Disruption or autoimmune targeting of hemidesmosome components causes severe skin blistering diseases such as bullous pemphigoid and certain forms of epidermolysis bullosa[1][7]. Hemidesmosomes do not fit the classification of a typical pharmacological target but may be indirectly involved in diseases treatable by immunosuppressive approaches.

Other names

Hemidesmosomal adhesion complexHemidesmosomal attachmentEpidermal basement membrane adhesion complex