E Cadherin Test

Cadherins (named for 'calcium-dependent adhesion') are a type of cell adhesion molecule (CAM) that is important in the formation of adherens junctions to bind cells with each other. Cadherins are dependent on calcium to function. Cell-cell adhesion is mediated by extracellular cadherin domains. Cadherins behave as both receptors and ligands for other molecules. During development, their behavior assists in properly positioning cells: they are responsible for the separation of the different tissue layers, and for cellular migration. Many cadherins are specified for specific functions in the cell, and they are differentially expressed in a developing embryo. It is a tumor suppressor gene. Besides its role in normal cells, this highly conserved gene can play a major role in malignant cell transformation, and especially in tumor development and progression. The suppression of E-cadherin expression is regarded as one of the main molecular events responsible for dysfunction in cell-cell adhesion.

No special preparation is required. Although, it is necessary that you follow the instructions given to you by the lab.

The test has the following uses: Cadherin is used to detect cancer in patients. E-cadherin is also used by pathologists to diagnose different kinds of breast cancer. It aids in differentiation between lobular and ductal neoplasms of the breast

For conducting the test, your affected tissue will be collected. E-cadherin protein expression was studied by immunohistochemistry using specific monoclonal antibodies. Immunohistochemistry was performed as previously described using an automated immunostainer. E-cadherin expression was interpreted as either positive or negative.