What Happens When Desmosomes or Hemidesmosomes Malfunction?
Malfunctions in desmosomes or hemidesmosomes can lead to severe clinical conditions. For instance, mutations in desmosomal proteins can cause diseases like pemphigus vulgaris, which results in blistering of the skin due to cell detachment. Similarly, defects in hemidesmosomal components can lead to diseases such as epidermolysis bullosa, characterized by fragile skin that easily blisters and detaches.
