Adherens junction assembly

Abstract

Classical cadherins are a family of transmembrane proteins that mediate cell–cell adhesion at adherens junctions. A complex chain of cis- and trans- interactions between cadherin ectodomains establishes a cadherin adhesive cluster. A principal adhesive interaction in such clusters is an exchange of β strands between the first extracellular cadherin domains (EC1). The structure of cadherin adhesive clusters can be modified by other adherens junction proteins including additional transmembrane proteins, nectins and various intracellular proteins that directly or indirectly interact with the intracellular cadherin region. These interactions determine the dynamics and stability of cadherin adhesive structures.