Claudin 20 (CLDN20)

Claudin 20 is a member of the claudin family of tetraspan transmembrane proteins, which are critical structural and functional components of tight junctions in epithelial and endothelial cells[2][3][6]. These proteins are characterized by four transmembrane domains and two extracellular loops, forming the backbone of tight junction strands that regulate paracellular transport and maintain cell polarity[3][4][6]. Claudin 20 is specifically involved in modulating tight junction barrier properties, contributing to the selective permeability to ions and small molecules[2][3][6]. Overexpression of Claudin 20 in human breast cancer has been associated with a more aggressive cell phenotype, enhanced invasion and motility, decreased trans-epithelial resistance, and poor patient survival, indicating a potential role in cancer progression[2]. The gene encoding Claudin 20 is CLDN20, and it is of interest in studies of epithelial barrier integrity and tumor biology, but there are currently no known drugs or therapeutic agents that specifically target Claudin 20[2][3].

Other names

CLDN20Claudin-20