E-Cadherin

E‑cadherin is a transmembrane cell‑adhesion protein expressed in almost all epithelial cells, where it maintains cell cohesion and polarity. It is encoded by the CDH1 gene on chromosome 16q22.1, and normal staining shows strong circumferential membranous expression. Loss or reduction of membranous E‑cadherin is associated with increased tumour cell motility and invasiveness. E‑cadherin is commonly used to help distinguish lobular carcinoma (usually negative) from ductal carcinoma (positive) in the breast (1).

Recommended Controls

Positive controls: almost all normal epithelial tissues work well because they show strong membranous E‑cadherin, including the colon, stomach, pancreas, prostate, endometrium, cervix, and thyroid; breast ductal epithelium is also a reliable internal control, while liver shows weaker but still membranous staining. Negative controls: tissues or tumours that normally lack E‑cadherin include invasive lobular carcinoma, LCIS, atypical lobular hyperplasia, diffuse‑type gastric adenocarcinoma, and normal mesothelial or granulosa cells, should show absent membranous staining.

Expected staining pattern

Invasive breast cancer

Lobular breast cancer

Descending colon mucosa

Prostate

Disclaimer

These methods are intended as a guide only. Laboratories that wish to implement these methods should perform internal validation/verification prior to use. The RCPAQAP does not make any claim or warranty for the accuracy or performance of these methods.