Protocadherin alpha-5 (PCDHA5)

Protocadherin alpha-5 (PCDHA5) is a member of the protocadherin alpha gene cluster, part of the cadherin superfamily of calcium-dependent cell-adhesion proteins. PCDHA5 is one of 15 closely related genes organized in tandem on human chromosome 5, with a unique genomic cluster arrangement reminiscent of immune receptor gene clusters. The protein contains six extracellular cadherin repeats (ectodomains), a single transmembrane region, and a cytoplasmic domain encoded by shared exons within the alpha cluster. PCDHA5 and related protocadherins are believed to play a critical role in establishing and maintaining specific neuronal connections and neural circuits in the brain via cell-cell adhesion mechanisms. Dysregulation or genetic variation of PCDHA5 has been associated with neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorders and may also be implicated in certain cancers, including prostate cancer. There are currently no known drugs directly targeting PCDHA5, nor is it considered a therapeutic drug target or receptor in clinical use.

Other names

CNRS6CNR6CRNR6CNRN6PCDH-alpha-5PCDH-ALPHA5KIAA0345-like 9ortholog of mouse CNR6