KCadherin (also known as Cadherin-6 or CDH6) is a calcium-dependent cell adhesion molecule belonging to the cadherin superfamily. These transmembrane glycoproteins play critical roles in tissue morphogenesis, cell polarity, and intercellular junction formation by mediating homophilic interactions. KCadherin is characterized by five extracellular cadherin repeats, a transmembrane domain, and a conserved cytoplasmic tail that binds catenins for cytoskeletal linkage. It is prominently expressed during embryonic development, particularly in the kidney, nervous system, and somites, where it regulates cell sorting, boundary formation, and tissue patterning.
In adults, KCadherin shows restricted expression but is implicated in pathological processes. Studies highlight its aberrant expression in cancers, including renal cell carcinoma, ovarian cancer, and hepatocellular carcinoma, where it may promote tumor invasiveness and metastasis. KCadherin antibodies are essential tools for investigating its biological roles and clinical relevance. These antibodies are widely used in techniques like immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, and immunofluorescence to detect protein localization, expression levels, and interaction partners. Researchers also employ them to study epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), cell signaling pathways, and KCadherin's crosstalk with other adhesion molecules. Commercially available KCadherin antibodies are typically raised in rabbits or mice, targeting specific extracellular or intracellular epitopes. Validation includes testing in knockout models or siRNA-treated cells to ensure specificity.