Protocadherin beta-6 (PCDHB6)

Protocadherin beta-6 is a calcium-dependent cell-adhesion protein belonging to the protocadherin beta gene cluster, part of the cadherin superfamily. It is an integral plasma membrane protein crucial for neuronal self-recognition and non-self discrimination, allowing the establishment and maintenance of specific neuronal connections in the brain. Its highly diverse isoforms are stochastically and monoallelically expressed in individual neurons, providing unique adhesive identities that help ensure appropriate neural wiring. Protocadherin beta-6 is primarily expressed in neural tissues. Disruption or mutation of PCDHB6 has been implicated in certain neurodevelopmental disorders, including Autism spectrum disorder and Cornelia de Lange syndrome. Alternative splicing generates multiple transcript variants. The molecular mechanism involves homophilic (isoform- and cell-specific) adhesive recognition via its extracellular cadherin domains. However, Protocadherin beta-6 is not an established drug target, and there are currently no known disease-modifying drugs or clinical biomarkers associated specifically with this protein.

Other names

Protocadherin beta-6PCDHB6PCDH-beta-6PCDH-BETA6protocadherin β 6

Not applicable; no drugs with a described mechanism of action targeting this protein.