CDH3 (Cadherin-3), also known as P-cadherin, is a calcium-dependent cell adhesion glycoprotein belonging to the type I classical cadherin family. It plays a critical role in maintaining tissue architecture by mediating homophilic cell-cell interactions, particularly in epithelial and endothelial layers. Structurally, CDH3 contains five extracellular cadherin repeats (EC domains), a transmembrane region, and a conserved cytoplasmic domain that interacts with catenins to link the actin cytoskeleton.
CDH3 is selectively expressed in normal tissues such as the placenta, epidermis, mammary glands, and developing tissues, but its overexpression is frequently observed in aggressive cancers, including breast, lung, pancreatic, thyroid, and melanoma. This dysregulation is associated with enhanced tumor progression, metastasis, and poor prognosis, likely due to its role in promoting epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cell migration.
CDH3 antibodies are immunological tools designed to detect and study the expression, localization, and function of CDH3 in biological samples. They are widely used in research applications like immunohistochemistry (IHC), Western blotting, and flow cytometry. Therapeutic interest in CDH3 has grown, with antibodies being explored for targeted drug delivery (e.g., antibody-drug conjugates) or as diagnostic biomarkers for cancer. However, its complex role in both normal physiology and disease necessitates careful evaluation to avoid off-target effects in clinical settings.