CDH11

Cadherin-11 (CDH11), also termed OB-cadherin, is a transmembrane glycoprotein belonging to the type II classical cadherin family. It mediates calcium-dependent cell-cell adhesion and regulates tissue morphogenesis, particularly in mesenchymal cells such as fibroblasts, osteoblasts, and smooth muscle cells. CDH11 modulates cell migration, proliferation, and differentiation through interactions with β-catenin and cytoskeletal components, influencing pathways like Wnt/β-catenin and Rho GTPase signaling. Dysregulation of CDH11 is implicated in rheumatoid arthritis synovial hyperplasia, cancer metastasis (e.g., breast, prostate), osteoporosis, and cardiovascular remodeling. Therapeutic strategies targeting CDH11 include monoclonal antibodies (e.g., RG6125) and small-molecule inhibitors under clinical evaluation for fibrosis and metastatic cancers. Challenges persist in achieving tissue-specific targeting to mitigate off-tissue effects while disrupting pathological CDH11-mediated adhesion.