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Updated: Aug 11, 2026

Analysis of Protein-protein Interactions and Co-localization Between Components of Gap, Tight, and Adherens Junctions in Murine Mammary Glands
Published on: May 30, 2017
Occludin is a functional component of the tight junction
K M McCarthy1, I B Skare, M C Stankewich
1Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston 02114, USA.
Chick occludin expression enhanced mammalian tight junction barrier function and increased strand numbers. This effect was reversible upon removal of the inducing agent, suggesting occludin
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Biophysics
Background:
- Mammalian tight junctions regulate paracellular permeability.
- Occludin is a key transmembrane protein in tight junctions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the functional role of occludin in mammalian tight junction assembly and barrier function.
- To determine if occludin expression affects transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) and paracellular flux.
Main Methods:
- Transfection of MDCK cells with chick occludin cDNA.
- Inducible expression of chick occludin using isopropyl-β-D-thiogalactoside.
- Measurement of TER, mannitol flux, and freeze-fracture electron microscopy.
Main Results:
- Induced chick occludin localized to tight junctions and increased TER by 30-40%.
- Freeze-fracture analysis showed an increase in tight junction strands and network width.
- Mannitol flux was reduced, indicating enhanced barrier function, which was reversible.
Conclusions:
- Occludin contributes to the electrical barrier function of mammalian tight junctions.
- Occludin may influence the formation of aqueous pores within tight junction strands.
- The effects of occludin expression on tight junction properties are reversible.
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