DSG1

DSG1, full name Desmoglein-1, has no widely accepted aliases and is a core desmosomal cadherin expressed in epidermal keratinocytes. It mediates intercellular adhesion by forming desmosomal junctions with desmocollins and plakophilins, maintaining epidermal structural integrity and tissue barrier function. It also modulates keratinocyte differentiation and proliferation via calcium-dependent cell-cell communication to regulate epidermal homeostasis.
DSG1 loss-of-function mutations cause striate palmoplantar keratoderma and lethal acantholytic epidermolysis bullosa. Autoantibodies against DSG1 induce pemphigus foliaceus, a blistering autoimmune skin disease. Current therapies rely on corticosteroids and immunosuppressants; novel biologics including anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies show clinical efficacy. Small-molecule modulators targeting DSG1-mediated adhesion are in preclinical research for treating keratinocyte dysfunction-related skin disorders.