**Core Concept**
Desmosomal proteins are a family of adhesion molecules that play a crucial role in maintaining tissue integrity and structure, particularly in epithelial and cardiac tissues. They are essential for resisting mechanical stresses and facilitating cell-to-cell adhesion.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Desmosomal proteins are a specific group of adhesion molecules that belong to the cadherin superfamily. They are composed of two main subunits: the cadherin domain, which mediates cell-to-cell adhesion, and the plakin domain, which anchors the complex to the intermediate filament network. The correct answer is likely to be a protein that does not fit this description.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it is a member of the desmosomal protein family, specifically a cadherin domain-containing protein.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because it is a member of the desmosomal protein family, specifically a plakin domain-containing protein.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because it is a member of the desmosomal protein family, specifically a protein that interacts with the intermediate filament network.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key characteristic of desmosomal proteins is their ability to resist mechanical stresses, making them essential for maintaining tissue integrity in areas prone to mechanical forces, such as the heart and skin.
**Correct Answer: A. Plakoglobin is a desmosomal protein, however it is a cytoplasmic protein which belongs to the armadillo protein family.
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
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