Cadherin vs. Integrin — What's the Difference?

Cadherins (named for "calcium-dependent adhesion") are a type of cell adhesion molecule (CAM) that are important in the formation of adherens junctions to allow cells to adhere to each other . Cadherins are a class of type-1 transmembrane proteins, and they are dependent on calcium (Ca2+) ions to function, hence their name.

Integrins are transmembrane receptors that facilitate cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) adhesion. Upon ligand binding, integrins activate signal transduction pathways that mediate cellular signals such as regulation of the cell cycle, organization of the intracellular cytoskeleton, and movement of new receptors to the cell membrane.

Any of a group of proteins that span the plasma membrane of eukaryotic cells and, in the presence of calcium, bind to identical proteins in adjacent cells, thus linking cells together in tissues.

Any of a group of transmembrane proteins that bind to certain molecules in the extracellular matrix or on the surface of other cells. They are involved in cell adhesion and motility and in the transmission of signals across the plasma membrane.

(protein) Any of a class of transmembrane proteins important in maintaining tissue structure.

(biochemistry) Any of many heterodimeric transmembrane proteins that function as receptors in communication between cells.