CLDN3

Claudin-3 (CLDN3) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the CLDN3 gene. Claudins are integral membrane proteins and components of tight junction strands. Tight junctions are specialized regions of cell-to-cell contact that are particularly abundant in epithelial cells but can also be found in other types of cells. They serve as barriers that regulate the passage of molecules and ions between the cells and help to maintain the distinct compositions of bodily compartments. Claudin-3 plays a significant role in tight junctions and is involved in maintaining the integrity and permeability of epithelial layers.

Structure and Function

Claudin-3 is a member of the claudin family, which consists of over 20 proteins in humans. These proteins have four transmembrane domains, two extracellular loops, and N- and C-terminal cytoplasmic tails. The extracellular loops are involved in the formation of tight junctions through interactions with claudins on adjacent cells. Claudin-3 contributes to the tight junction's barrier function by regulating the paracellular transport, which is the transport of substances across the epithelium by passing through the space between cells.

Genetics

The CLDN3 gene is located on chromosome 7q11.23. Mutations in this gene and dysregulation of claudin-3 expression have been associated with various pathological conditions, including cancer. In some cancers, overexpression of claudin-3 has been observed and is thought to contribute to the progression and metastasis of the disease.

Clinical Significance

Claudin-3 has been studied extensively in the context of cancer biology. Its overexpression in ovarian, breast, and prostate cancers suggests a role in tumorigenesis and cancer progression. Furthermore, claudin-3 is being explored as a potential biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of certain cancers. In addition to its role in cancer, alterations in claudin-3 expression have been implicated in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and other conditions that affect the integrity of epithelial barriers.

Research Directions

Research on claudin-3 is ongoing, with studies focusing on its role in disease and its potential as a therapeutic target. For example, strategies to modulate claudin-3 expression or function are being explored in the context of enhancing drug delivery across epithelial barriers or inhibiting the spread of cancer cells.

See Also

• Claudin
• Tight junction
• Epithelium
• Cancer
• Inflammatory bowel disease

External Links

• CLDN3 gene on NCBI
• Claudin-3 on UniProt