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Updated: Jul 13, 2026
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Functional Assessment of Intestinal Tight Junction Barrier and Ion Permeability in Native Tissue by Ussing Chamber Technique
Published on: May 26, 2021
Claudins and paracellular transport: an update
1Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California 90033, USA.
Current Opinion in Nephrology and Hypertension
|August 19, 2007
Summary
Claudins, essential tight junction proteins, regulate paracellular permeability and ion selectivity in the kidneys. Recent advances clarify their roles in renal physiology and disease, highlighting areas for future research.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Biology
- Renal Physiology
Background:
- Claudins are integral membrane proteins forming tight junctions.
- Tight junctions control paracellular transport and cellular barrier function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advances in claudin biology.
- To explore the relevance of claudins in renal physiology and pathophysiology.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on claudin function.
- Analysis of claudin roles using overexpression and RNA interference techniques.
Main Results:
- Claudins determine paracellular pathway permeability and charge selectivity for small ions.
- Specific claudins (e.g., claudin-2, -8, -10, -16, -19) have elucidated roles in the renal tubule.
- Evidence suggests claudin multimerization, though direct proof is limited.
Conclusions:
- Claudin research provides insights into renal function and disease.
- Further investigation is needed to fully understand claudin biology and function.
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