CDH16

Cadherin-16 (CDH16), also known as kidney-specific cadherin (KSP-cadherin), is a calcium-dependent cell adhesion molecule predominantly expressed in renal tubular epithelial cells. As a member of the cadherin superfamily, it mediates homotypic cell-cell interactions crucial for maintaining tubular architecture and polarity during nephrogenesis. CDH16 interacts with β-catenin to regulate Wnt signaling pathways implicated in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and tissue morphogenesis. Clinically, CDH16 downregulation correlates with renal cell carcinoma progression and polycystic kidney disease, while its ectopic expression has been observed in thyroid neoplasms. Despite its diagnostic utility as a renal lineage marker, no targeted therapies against CDH16 have reached clinical trials. Recent studies explore its potential as a biomarker for liquid biopsies in renal malignancies.