This gene encodes a member of the cadherin superfamily. Cadherins are membrane glycoproteins that mediate homophilic cell-cell adhesion and play critical roles in cell differentiation and morphogenesis. The encoded protein is a type II cadherin and may play a role in kidney development as well as endometrium and placenta formation. Decreased expression of this gene may be associated with tumor growth and metastasis. [provided by RefSeq, May 2011].