DSG3 (Desmoglein-3) is a calcium dependent cadherin-type adhesion molecule that along with desmocollins, form the adhesive core of desmosomes in keratinocytes. DSG3 identifies squamous differentiaton and is a highly specific and sensitive marker for pulmonary squamous cell carcinomas, particularly in subtyping from other types of lung cancer. Upregulation of DSG3 has been correlated with metastasis in a number of cancers including lung, potentially due to DSG3’s role in cell-adhesion and migration mechanics via regulation of the WNT/B-Catenin/TCF signaling pathway. Autoantibodies to DSG3 cause pemphigus vulgaris. DSG3 localization is membranous. References: PlosOne 2013 doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0053739; Savci-Heijink, 2009; Weed, 2015; J Invest Dermatol 1996 106(2):351