DSG3

Desmoglein-3 (DSG3) is the desmosomal cadherin of the lower epidermis and mucous membranes, where it dominates over DSG1 and maintains the strong intercellular adhesion that protects stratified squamous epithelia from mechanical stress. DSG3 is best known as the autoantigen of pemphigus vulgaris: IgG autoantibodies against its extracellular cadherin repeats cause suprabasal blistering of skin and mucosa, and circulating anti-DSG3 titers track disease activity. Mouse models deleting Dsg3 reproduce the mucosal blistering phenotype, confirming nonredundant function. Recombinant DSG3 ectodomain serves as the standard substrate for diagnostic ELISA and antigen-specific immunoadsorption approaches in pemphigus.