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The “glue” holding your cells together has a surprising second job

Scientists have discovered that E-cadherin, a protein best known as the “glue” holding cells and tissues together, has a surprising second job: helping…

According to ScienceDaily, scientists have discovered that E-cadherin, a protein best known as the “glue” holding cells and tissues together, has a surprising second job: helping epithelial cells swallow nearby dead cells.

Using live zebrafish and mouse embryos, researchers found that cells can dramatically reshape their lower surfaces to engulf cellular debris while keeping their upper surfaces stable, allowing protective barriers to remain sealed.

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Key details

Location
United States · Americas
Reported by
ScienceDaily
First reported
Key names
E-cadherin
Section
Science

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