Abstract
Cadherins are calcium-dependent, transmembrane intercellular adhesion proteins with morphoregulatory functions in the development and maintenance of tissues. In the development of striated muscle, the expression and function of mainly M-, N-, and R-cadherin has been studied so far. While these three cadherins are expressed in skeletal muscle cells, of these only N-cadherin is expressed in cardiac muscle. In this review, M-, N-, and R-cadherin are discussed as important players in the terminal differentiation and possibly also in the commitment of skeletal muscle cells. Furthermore, reports are described which evaluate the essential role of N-cadherin in the formation of heart tissue.
Similar content being viewed by others
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Additional information
Received: 3 September 1998 / Accepted: 25 November 1998
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Kaufmann, U., Martin, B., Link, D. et al. M-cadherin and its sisters in development of striated muscle. Cell Tissue Res 296, 191–198 (1999). https://doi.org/10.1007/s004410051280
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s004410051280