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Modulation of tight junction structure and function by cytokines
S V Walsh1, A M Hopkins, A Nusrat
1Epithelial Pathobiology Unit, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
Insights
Cytokines dynamically regulate tight junction (TJ) function, crucial for physiologic and pathologic states. This review examines how cytokines impact TJ structure and barrier function, influencing paracellular permeability.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Cell Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Tight junction (TJ) integrity is vital for maintaining physiological processes and preventing disease.
- Disruptions in TJ function lead to altered paracellular permeability, a characteristic of various pathological conditions.
- Emerging research indicates that cytokines play a significant role in modulating TJ function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing literature on the effects of cytokines on tight junction (TJ) function and structure.
- To explore the mechanisms by which cytokines influence TJ barrier integrity.
- To correlate cytokine-induced changes in TJs with alterations in TJ proteins and the actin cytoskeleton.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating cytokine effects on tight junctions.
- Analysis of in vitro and in vivo experimental data.
- Examination of correlations between cytokine signaling, TJ protein expression, and cytoskeletal organization.
Main Results:
- Cytokines are increasingly recognized as key regulators of tight junction (TJ) function.
- Cytokine-mediated effects on TJs involve alterations in intrinsic TJ proteins.
- Changes in the actin cytoskeleton are associated with cytokine-induced modulation of TJ barrier function.
Conclusions:
- Cytokines significantly impact tight junction (TJ) structure and function.
- Understanding these cytokine-TJ interactions is crucial for comprehending both normal physiology and disease pathogenesis.
- Further research into cytokine signaling pathways offers potential therapeutic targets for conditions involving altered paracellular permeability.
Abstract:
Dynamic regulation of tight junction function is fundamental to many physiologic processes. Disruption of tight junction function drastically alters paracellular permeability and is a hallmark of many pathologic states. Recently, an increasing number of cytokines have been shown to influence tight junction function both in vitro and in vivo. Cytokine-induced effects on tight junction barrier function have also been correlated with effects on intrinsic tight junction proteins and the associated actin cytoskeleton. The aim of this article is to review studies relating to the effects of cytokines on tight junction function and structure.