desmogleiini

Desmogleins are a subfamily of cadherin proteins that play a crucial role in cell adhesion. They are essential components of desmosomes, which are specialized cell junctions that provide strong mechanical strength to tissues. Desmogleins are transmembrane proteins, meaning they span across the cell membrane. Their extracellular domains are involved in binding to desmogleins on adjacent cells, while their intracellular domains connect to the cytoskeleton through a complex of adapter proteins. This structural arrangement allows desmosomes to anchor cells together, forming a robust network that resists mechanical stress.

There are four main types of desmogleins in humans: desmoglein 1, desmoglein 2, desmoglein 3, and desmoglein 4. These desmogleins are differentially expressed in various tissues, with specific combinations contributing to the unique adhesive properties of different cell types. For instance, desmoglein 1 is predominantly found in the epidermis, particularly in the superficial layers, and is important for maintaining skin barrier function. Desmoglein 3 is also found in the epidermis, primarily in deeper layers, and is critical for cell cohesion in stratified epithelia.

Mutations in desmoglein genes are associated with several human diseases, most notably pemphigus. Pemphigus is a group of autoimmune blistering disorders where antibodies target desmogleins, leading to the breakdown of cell-cell adhesion in the epidermis and consequently the formation of blisters. The specific desmoglein targeted by autoantibodies determines the subtype of pemphigus and its clinical presentation. Research into desmogleins continues to advance our understanding of cell adhesion, tissue integrity, and the pathogenesis of related diseases.