Cadherin
Cadherin is a type of protein that plays a crucial role in cell adhesion, helping cells stick together to form tissues. These proteins are found in many organisms, including humans, and are essential for maintaining the structure and integrity of tissues. Cadherins interact with each other in a calcium-dependent manner, which means they require calcium ions to function properly.
There are several types of cadherins, each with specific roles in different tissues. For example, E-cadherin is primarily found in epithelial tissues, while N-cadherin is more common in neural tissues. The proper functioning of cadherins is vital for processes like tissue development, wound healing, and maintaining the overall architecture of organs.