| cadherins | A group of functionally related glycoproteins responsible for the calcium-dependent cell-to-cell adhesion mechanism. They are divided into subclasses e-, p-, and n-cadherins, which are distinct in immunological specificity and tissue distribution. They promote cell adhesion via a homophilic mechanism. These compounds play a role in the construction of tissues and of the whole animal body. (12 Dec 1998) |
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