This gene is a member of the cadherin superfamily, genes encoding calcium-dependent, membrane-associated glycoproteins. The encoded protein is cadherin-like, consisting of an extracellular region, containing 7 cadherin domains, and a transmembrane region but lacking the conserved cytoplasmic domain. The protein is a component of the gastrointestinal tract and pancreatic ducts, acting as an intestinal proton-dependent peptide transporter in the first step in oral absorption of many medically important peptide-based drugs. The protein may also play a role in the morphological organization of liver and intestine. In normal tissues, LI cadherin antibodies are labeled on epithelial cells of the gastrointestinal and pancreatic tracts, but not on epithelial cells of the kidneys, liver, and other tissues. In tumors, it is expressed in digestive system adenocarcinoma, including cancer. It is a sensitive biomarker for distinguishing gastrointestinal metaplasia from well differentiated adenocarcinoma.
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