Cadherins are a family of proteins that play a crucial role in cell adhesion, helping cells stick together to form tissues. They are essential for maintaining the structure and integrity of tissues in organisms, including humans. Cadherins function by binding to similar cadherin molecules on adjacent cells, creating strong connections that are vital for tissue formation and stability. These proteins are involved in various biological processes, including embryonic development, wound healing, and cell signaling. Different types of cadherins are expressed in different tissues, allowing for specific interactions that contribute to the overall organization and function of multicellular organisms.