Hcadherin

H-cadherin, also known as T-cadherin or cadherin-13 (CDH13), is a member of the cadherin superfamily of cell adhesion molecules. It is distinguished from classical transmembrane cadherins by its mode of membrane attachment: H-cadherin is a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)–anchored protein that lacks a transmembrane domain and a cytoplasmic tail. The extracellular region contains multiple cadherin repeats that mediate calcium-dependent cell–cell adhesion and allow homophilic interactions between neighboring cells.

Expression of H-cadherin has been reported in a variety of tissues, including vascular endothelium, adipose tissue, heart, and certain brain regions, with levels varying during development and in disease states. Its distribution suggests roles in cardiovascular and metabolic tissues as well as in the nervous system.

Functionally, H-cadherin contributes to cell–cell adhesion in a Ca2+-dependent manner, but its GPI-anchored status suggests it may modulate adhesion and signaling in cooperation with other membrane proteins and lipid raft–associated complexes rather than driving strong adhesion on its own. The protein is thought to influence cellular interactions in tissues where it is expressed and may participate in related signaling pathways.

Clinical relevance: CDH13 expression is frequently altered in cancer, where promoter hypermethylation and gene silencing have been described, implying a potential tumor suppressor role in some contexts. Variations in CDH13 expression or dosage have also been linked to metabolic traits, obesity, and cardiovascular conditions, though the mechanisms remain under study.

Genomics and nomenclature: The CDH13 gene encodes H-cadherin and is sometimes referred to by aliases such as H-cadherin or T-cadherin. It is categorized among the atypical cadherins, reflecting its GPI anchoring and distinct intracellular architecture from classical cadherins.