**Background of CDH4 Antibody**
CDH4 (Cadherin-4), also known as R-cadherin, belongs to the cadherin superfamily of calcium-dependent transmembrane glycoproteins that mediate cell-cell adhesion. These proteins play critical roles in tissue morphogenesis, cellular polarity, and signal transduction. CDH4 is characterized by five extracellular cadherin repeats (EC domains) that facilitate homophilic or heterophilic interactions, with calcium-binding sites ensuring structural stability. Its intracellular domain interacts with β-catenin, linking cadherins to the actin cytoskeleton.
CDH4 is prominently expressed during embryonic development, particularly in the nervous system, retina, and muscle tissues, where it guides axon pathfinding, synaptic connectivity, and tissue patterning. In adults, CDH4 expression persists in specific regions, including the retina and brain. Dysregulation of CDH4 has been implicated in pathological conditions, such as cancer metastasis, where its role remains context-dependent—acting as either a tumor suppressor (e.g., inhibiting invasion in some cancers) or promoter (e.g., enhancing cell migration in others).
CDH4 antibodies are essential tools for detecting protein expression, localization, and function in research. They are widely used in techniques like Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence to study tissue development, neural connectivity, and cancer biology. Additionally, CDH4-targeting antibodies are explored for therapeutic applications, particularly in modulating cell adhesion pathways in diseases.