Rat Cadherin 5 (CDH5) Protein

Background

Cadherin-5 (CDH5), also known as VE-cadherin (vascular endothelial cadherin), is a calcium-dependent adhesion protein primarily found in endothelial cells, which line blood and lymphatic vessels. It plays a critical role in maintaining the integrity and permeability of blood vessels by facilitating cell-cell adhesion between endothelial cells. CDH5 is essential for normal vascular development, and disruptions in its expression or function have been linked to various diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and inflammatory conditions. As a classical cadherin, CDH5 belongs to a larger family of transmembrane proteins characterized by their cadherin repeats, which enable homophilic (same-type cell) binding and the formation of stable adherens junctions.