Final answer:
Cadherins are a class of Cell Adhesion Molecules that form adherens junctions, are calcium-dependent, and anchor cells to the cytoskeleton, promoting cell-cell adhesion and tissue integrity. They are different from integrins, which are CAMs that mediate cell-matrix adhesion and serve as signaling platforms.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cadherins are a type of Cell Adhesion Molecule (CAM) that play a role in cell-cell interactions like adherens junctions (desmosomes). This CAM is Ca₂⁺+ dependent; the extracellular region typically binds in a homophilic fashion. The intracellular region binds to plaque proteins which anchors the CAM to the cytoskeleton.
During the process of cell adhesion, cadherins act as the 'glue' that binds cells together to form strong cohesive tissues. They span the intercellular space to link to adjacent cell membranes, and the plaques they connect with are linked to cytoskeletal elements like intermediate filaments. This interaction is vital for tissue structure and integrity, enabling cells to adhere to one another, forming a stable cell layer.
In addition to cadherins, other types of CAMs such as integrins play critical roles in cell-matrix adhesion. Integrins bind to proteins within the Extracellular Matrix (ECM), and are connected to the actin cytoskeleton via cytoplasmic proteins such as talin and vinculin. Through these connections, cells can anchor to the ECM, creating focal adhesions that act as signaling platforms for various cellular functions.