PECAM-1 (Platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule, EndoCAM, CD31 antigen, Leukocyte surface protein)

PECAM-1 is a newly characterized adhesion molecule that belongs to the immunoglobulin superfamily. It is a transmembrane glycoprotein with a molecular weight of approximately 130 kDa, depending on the degree of glycosylation. PECAM-1 is constitutively expressed on all vascular cells and has provided a useful immunohistochemical marker of blood vessels, particularly in the setting of angiogenesis. PECAM-1 is a sensitive and specific marker for detection of melanoma-associated angiogenesis. It may be a useful marker for early detection of tumor metastasis.