The biology and diagnostic applications of cadherins in neoplasia: a review.

Benjamin Wood, Anthony Leong

Journal: Pathology 2003;35(2):101-5

PMID: 12745455

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Abstract

Cadherins are a large family of calcium-dependent "cell adhesion molecules". In addition to their structural role, cadherins have a number of important functions in the control of cell growth and differentiation. This paper reviews the biology of cadherins and their role in neoplastic transformation, development of the invasive and metastatic phenotype, effects on tumour morphology and the applications of cadherin immunolabelling in tumour diagnosis. Potential areas of future investigation and diagnostic applications are discussed.

Address: Division of Anatomical Pathology, Hunter Area Pathology Service, John Hunter Hospital, University of Newcastle, Lookout Road, New Lambton Heights, Newcastle, NSW 2310, Australia.

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MeSH Terms: Cadherins, DNA, Neoplasm, Humans, Immunohistochemistry, Neoplasms