Protocadherin beta-3 (PCDHB3)

Protocadherin beta-3 (PCDHB3) is a member of the protocadherin beta gene cluster within the cadherin superfamily, localized on human chromosome 5 and encoding a neural cadherin-like cell adhesion protein[1][3]. PCDHB3 is believed to function as a calcium-dependent cell adhesion molecule predominantly in the central nervous system, where it plays a key role in the establishment and maintenance of specific neuronal connections. The protein consists of six extracellular cadherin domains and a distinctive cytoplasmic tail, and interacts with other identical PCDHB3 molecules in a highly specific homophilic manner at neuronal cell surfaces, contributing to the molecular diversity required for neural circuit formation[5]. Although its precise biological function is not fully elucidated, PCDHB3 is predicted to enable calcium ion binding and participate in membrane adhesion processes crucial for neural development and synapse specificity[1][4]. There is evidence suggesting potential tumor suppressor activity of PCDHB3 in colorectal cancer through inhibition of the NF-κB pathway and associations with autism spectrum disorder, but it is not currently considered an established therapeutic target, nor are any drugs known to directly target PCDHB3[1][6][9].

Other names

Protocadherin beta 3PCDH-beta-3PCDH-BETA3PCDHB3