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     Western blot analysis of Desmocollin 3 expression in A431 cell lysate.    

  
  

Desmocollin 3 (DSC3) is a transmembrane glycoprotein belonging to the desmosomal cadherin family, primarily involved in cell-cell adhesion through desmosomes. These junctions are critical for maintaining tissue integrity, especially in mechanically stressed epithelia like the skin and heart. DSC3 is encoded by the *DSC3* gene and is one of four desmocollin isoforms (DSC1-4) with tissue-specific expression patterns. DSC3 is predominantly expressed in stratified and simple epithelial tissues, playing a key role in epidermal homeostasis and barrier function.

Antibodies targeting DSC3 are essential tools in studying desmosomal dynamics, epithelial biology, and diseases linked to cell adhesion defects. Autoantibodies against DSC3 are implicated in autoimmune blistering disorders, such as pemphigus vulgaris, where disrupted desmosomal adhesion leads to epidermal detachment. Researchers also use DSC3 antibodies to explore cancer biology, as altered DSC3 expression correlates with tumor progression and metastasis in certain carcinomas.

In the lab, DSC3 antibodies are employed in techniques like immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, and immunofluorescence to visualize protein localization, expression levels, and interaction networks. Monoclonal antibodies offer high specificity, while polyclonal versions may detect multiple epitopes. Recent studies highlight DSC3's potential as a diagnostic biomarker or therapeutic target, emphasizing the antibody's value in both basic research and clinical applications. Understanding DSC3's role through these antibodies continues to advance insights into epithelial disorders and cancer mechanisms.