CLDN18
Description
The CLDN18 (claudin 18) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 3.
Claudin-18 is a protein encoded by the CLDN18 gene in humans. It belongs to the claudin family of proteins, which form tight junctions in epithelial cells. Claudin 18.2, an isoform of CLDN18, is abundant in gastric tumors. An experimental antibody, IMAB362, targets Claudin 18.2 for the treatment of gastric cancers.
CLDN18 plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of fluids in the lungs by regulating the tight junctions between alveolar epithelial cells. This regulation affects ion transport and the permeability of solutes, potentially influencing the organization of the actin cytoskeleton and beta-2-adrenergic signaling. CLDN18 is essential for lung development and the integrity of the alveolar epithelial barrier. It also contributes to the control of epithelial cell growth and organ size by regulating the localization of YAP1, a protein involved in gene transcription. Additionally, CLDN18 acts as a negative regulator of osteoclast differentiation, a process involved in bone resorption, potentially by influencing the localization of TJP2/ZO-2. This protein may also mediate the protective effects of estrogen on bone health.
CLDN18 is also known as SFTA5, SFTPJ.
Associated Diseases
- endometrial cancer
- Kallmann syndrome
- congenital lobar emphysema
- cancer
- hypersensitivity pneumonitis, familial
- familial avascular necrosis of femoral head
- hyperostosis corticalis generalisata
