CDON - cell adhesion associated, oncogene regulated | Elisa - Clia - Antibody - Protein

Background

CDON (Cell adhesion associated, oncogene regulated) is a member of the immunoglobulin superfamily involved in various cellular processes including cell adhesion, signal transduction, and regulation of cell growth. It is crucial for proper cellular communication and development. CDON is expressed in several tissues, including the nervous system and skeletal muscle, playing a significant role in the differentiation and development of these tissues. The gene encoding CDON is involved in various signaling pathways, notably the Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway, which is essential for embryonic development and the regulation of stem cells.

Protein Structure

CDON is a type I transmembrane protein with a complex structure that includes:

• Extracellular Domain: Contains multiple immunoglobulin-like (Ig) domains and fibronectin type III (FNIII) repeats. These domains facilitate interactions with other cell surface molecules and extracellular matrix components.
• Transmembrane Segment: A single-pass transmembrane region that anchors the protein to the cell membrane.
• Intracellular Domain: Contains several conserved motifs that interact with intracellular signaling molecules and adaptors, facilitating downstream signaling.

Classification and Subtypes

CDON belongs to the immunoglobulin superfamily and is part of a subfamily of cell adhesion molecules involved in the Hedgehog signaling pathway. There are no distinct subtypes of CDON itself, but it interacts with other related proteins such as BOC (Brother of CDO) and PTCH1 (Patched1), which are also involved in the Hh signaling pathway.

Function and Biological Significance

CDON plays several vital roles:

• Cell Adhesion: Facilitates cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions, which are crucial for tissue organization and integrity.
• Signal Transduction: Acts as a co-receptor in the Hedgehog signaling pathway, contributing to the regulation of cell proliferation, differentiation, and tissue patterning during embryonic development.
• Muscle and Neural Development: Essential for the proper differentiation of muscle cells and neurons, influencing their growth and survival.
• Tumor Suppression: In some contexts, CDON acts as a tumor suppressor by regulating cell growth and preventing uncontrolled proliferation.

Clinical Issues

Mutations or altered expression of CDON can lead to several clinical conditions:

• Congenital Disorders: Abnormalities in CDON function are associated with congenital conditions such as holoprosencephaly, a disorder resulting from incomplete midline separation of the forebrain.
• Cancer: Dysregulation of CDON and its signaling pathways can contribute to the development and progression of various cancers, including basal cell carcinoma and medulloblastoma, by influencing cell proliferation and survival.
• Muscular Disorders: Defects in CDON function can affect muscle development and lead to muscle-related diseases or conditions characterized by impaired muscle function and differentiation.

Summary

CDON is a critical cell adhesion molecule and signaling protein that plays essential roles in cell adhesion, signal transduction, and regulation of cellular growth and differentiation. Its involvement in the Hedgehog signaling pathway underscores its importance in embryonic development, neural differentiation, and muscle formation. Dysregulation of CDON is implicated in several congenital disorders and cancers, highlighting its significance in maintaining normal cellular function and development. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of CDON can provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for related pathologies.