Desmocollin1 (Dsc1) is a member of the desmocollin family of calcium-dependent transmembrane glycoproteins, which are essential components of desmosomes—intercellular junctions critical for maintaining tissue integrity in epithelial and other tissues. As a key adhesion molecule, Dsc1 plays a vital role in cell-cell adhesion by mediating homophilic and heterophilic interactions with other desmosomal cadherins, such as desmogleins. Structurally, it consists of an extracellular domain responsible for calcium-dependent binding, a transmembrane region, and a cytoplasmic tail that interacts with intracellular plaque proteins like plakoglobin and desmoplakin to anchor intermediate filaments to the plasma membrane.
Dsc1 is predominantly expressed in stratified epithelia, including the skin, where it contributes to epidermal barrier function and cellular differentiation. Antibodies targeting Dsc1 have become valuable tools in research and diagnostics. In autoimmune blistering disorders like pemphigus vulgaris or subcorneal pustular dermatosis, anti-Dsc1 autoantibodies can disrupt desmosomal adhesion, leading to acantholysis and tissue fragility. Additionally, Dsc1 antibodies are used experimentally to study desmosome assembly, epithelial morphogenesis, and wound healing. Recent studies also explore its role in cancer, as altered Dsc1 expression correlates with tumor progression and metastasis in certain carcinomas. The development of monoclonal and polyclonal Dsc1 antibodies continues to advance understanding of desmosome biology and disease mechanisms.