Recombinant Human Claudin 18.2 (Active) protein

Supplementary information

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Claudin 18.2 also known as claudin 18 CLDN18 or claudin-18.2 is a tight junction protein with a molecular mass of approximately 27 kDa. It is primarily expressed in gastric epithelial cells and certain lung tissues. Claudin 18.2 is part of the claudin family which plays a critical role in forming tight junctions to regulate paracellular transport and maintain cellular polarity. This isoform specifically expressed in the stomach is encoded by the CLDN18 gene located on chromosome 3. Researchers often use techniques like Immunohistochemistry (IHC) referred to as claudin 18.2 IHC or cldn18 IHC to study its expression and localization.

Biological function summary

Claudin 18.2 functions within tight junction complexes creating a barrier and controlling the movement of ions and molecules between cells. It is vital for the integrity and function of epithelial cell barriers in the stomach. The protein interacts with other claudins and cytoplasmic proteins to form these tight junctions essential for maintaining tissue organization and permeability. Its unique expression pattern makes it a significant marker for gastric tissue and a potential target for therapeutics.

Pathways

Claudin 18.2 is involved in cellular pathways related to adhesion and barrier function. It plays a role in the tight junction pathway critical for epithelial barrier integrity. This pathway involves interactions with other claudin proteins and ZO-1 which is a cytoplasmic plaque protein that links claudins to the actin cytoskeleton reinforcing cellular structure. Another pathway where claudin 18.2 is important is the gastro-intestinal epithelium maintenance pathway which is fundamental for protecting gastric tissues.

Claudin 18.2 is a notable target in cancers especially gastric cancer. Its specific expression in gastric tissues makes it an attractive target for cancer immunotherapy as aberrant expression could indicate gastric cancer onset. Another disorder related to claudin 18.2 is asthma particularly where lung epithelial cells express this protein. Studies have identified links between claudin 18.2 and increased permeability in lung tissues implicating it in asthmatic pathophysiology. Its association with these conditions highlights the potential for claudin 18.2 as a diagnostic or therapeutic target in oncology and respiratory diseases.