CDH4

This gene is a classical cadherin from the cadherin superfamily. The encoded protein is a calcium-dependent cell-cell adhesion glycoprotein comprised of five extracellular cadherin repeats, a transmembrane region and a highly conserved cytoplasmic tail. Based on studies in chicken and mouse, this cadherin is thought to play an important role during brain segmentation and neuronal outgrowth. In addition, a role in kidney and muscle development is indicated. Of particular interest are studies showing stable cis-heterodimers of cadherins 2 and 4 in cotransfected cell lines. Previously thought to interact in an exclusively homophilic manner, this is the first evidence of cadherin heterodimerization. [provided by RefSeq]

Full Name

Cadherin 4

Function

Cadherins are calcium-dependent cell adhesion proteins. They preferentially interact with themselves in a homophilic manner in connecting cells; cadherins may thus contribute to the sorting of heterogeneous cell types. May play an important role in retinal development.

Biological Process

Adherens junction organization Source: Reactome
Axon guidance Source: Ensembl
Cell adhesion Source: ProtInc
Cell-cell adhesion via plasma-membrane adhesion molecules Source: GO_Central
Heterophilic cell-cell adhesion via plasma membrane cell adhesion molecules Source: Ensembl
Homophilic cell adhesion via plasma membrane adhesion molecules Source: GO_Central
Positive regulation of axon extension Source: Ensembl

Cellular Location

Cell membrane

Topology

Extracellular: 170-734
Helical: 735-756
Cytoplasmic: 757-916