Nectin cell adhesion molecule 3 (NECTIN3)

Nectin cell adhesion molecule 3 (NECTIN3) is a single-pass type I membrane glycoprotein in the immunoglobulin superfamily, functioning as a Ca2+-independent cell adhesion molecule primarily at adherens junctions[1][3][5]. It contains three extracellular Ig-like domains, a transmembrane region, and a cytoplasmic tail that interacts with afadin to connect to the actin cytoskeleton. NECTIN3 forms both homophilic and heterophilic interactions, notably with other nectins (e.g., NECTIN1, NECTIN2), contributing to the establishment and maintenance of adherens junctions in epithelial, neural, and other tissues[1][3][5]. It is essential for tissue architecture, synapse formation, axonal guidance, morphogenesis, and various developmental processes. Mutations can cause congenital malformations, especially affecting the eye and orofacial region, and animal models reveal roles in fertility and neural patterning[5]. While NECTIN3 is regarded as a potential tissue integrity and morphogenesis modulator, it is not currently a major direct therapeutic target.

Other names

Nectin-3PRR3PVRL3CD113PPR3PVRR3DKFZP566B0846CDw113Poliovirus receptor-related protein 3NECTIN-3poliovirus receptor-related 3poliovirus receptor-related protein 3