Human Melanoma Cell Adhesion Molecule (MCAM) Protein

Background

The melanoma cell adhesion molecule (MCAM), also known as CD146 or MUC18, is a transmembrane glycoprotein belonging to the immunoglobulin superfamily (IgSF). MCAM was initially identified as an adhesion molecule highly expressed in melanoma cells, and since then, it has been shown to play a role in various cellular processes beyond melanoma, including angiogenesis, inflammation, and immune cell trafficking. MCAM is expressed in a variety of cell types, such as endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and immune cells, contributing to its diverse biological functions. Its key role in cellular adhesion makes it critical in both normal physiological processes like vascular integrity and in pathological conditions such as cancer metastasis, cardiovascular disease, and inflammation.