(1). What is the reaction catalyzed
by the protein or the function if it is non-catalytic?
Cadherin is not a catalytic protein. Cadherin
is a transmembrane molecule which functions in cell-cell adhesion dependent
on the binding of Ca2+.
(2). What role does this enzyme
play in any larger biochemical pathway?
N/A. because it is not an enzyme.
(3). Is the enzyme regulated
in any manner related to structure?
Cadherin can function mantaining the structure and shape
of cells. This function also needs the linkage to catenins and the
cytoskeletal structure molecules (e.g. actions).
(4). What is the mechanism of
the catalytic reaction?
N/A. because it is non-catalytic.
(5). Are there any novel structural
or mechanistic aspects to the protein?
A novel structure, quasi-beta-helix,
is found in the "Cad1" repeat of the extracellular portion of cadherin.
For details, please see Fig4
in the Biological
Structure & Functions page.
If you have any other questions or comments about my homepage and/or cadherins, please send an e-mail to me at johnchen@arches.uga.edu or call me at (706) 542-2255 (lab) or (706) 542-1947.