Description
This gene encodes a member of the cadherin family of calcium-dependent glycoproteins that mediate cell adhesion and regulate many morphogenetic events during development. The encoded preproprotein is further processed to generate a mature protein. Mice lacking the encoded protein die in utero due to vascular insufficiency, caused by increased endothelial apoptosis. Multiple distinct genes of the cadherin family, including this gene, are found on chromosome 8.