Desmosomal adhesion in vivo.
Desmosomes are intercellular junctions that provide strong adhesion or hyper-adhesion in tissues. Here, we discuss the molecular and structural basis of this with particular reference to the desmosomal cadherins (DCs), their isoforms and evolution. We also assess the role of DCs as regulators of epithelial differentiation. New data on the role of desmosomes in development and human disease, especially wound healing and pemphigus, are briefly discussed, and the importance of regulation of the adhesiveness of desmosomes in tissue dynamics is considered.
Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University , Mansoura City , Egypt.
Mohamed
M
Berika
David
D
Garrod
D000818:Animals; D002448:Cell Adhesion; D051187:Desmocollins / Q000737:chemistry / Q000378:metabolism; D051182:Desmogleins / Q000737:chemistry / Q000378:metabolism; D051181:Desmosomal Cadherins / Q000737:chemistry / Q000378:metabolism; D003896:Desmosomes / Q000737:chemistry / Q000378:metabolism*; D006801:Humans; D010392:Pemphigus / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology; D020033:Protein Isoforms / Q000737:chemistry / Q000378:metabolism; D014945:Wound Healing
D051187:Desmocollins; D051182:Desmogleins; D051181:Desmosomal Cadherins; D020033:Protein Isoforms