Molecular basis for cation selectivity in claudin-2-based paracellular pores: identification of an electrostatic interaction site

Tricellular junctions: how to build junctions at the TRICkiest points of epithelial cells

Tricellular contacts are the places where three cells meet. In vertebrate epithelial cells, specialized structures called tricellular tight junctions (tTJs) and tricellular adherens junctions (tAJs) have been identified. tTJs are important for the maintenance of barrier function, and disruption of tTJ proteins contributes to familial deafness. tAJs have recently been attracting the attention of mechanobiologists because these sites are hot spots of epithelial tension. Although the molecular components, regulation, and function of tTJs and tAJs, as well as of invertebrate tricellular junctions, are beginning to be characterized, many questions remain. Here we broadly cover what is known about tricellular junctions, propose a new model for tension transmission at tAJs, and discuss key open questions.

IL-22 Increases Permeability of Intestinal Epithelial Tight Junctions by Enhancing Claudin-2 Expression

Dysfunction of the epithelial barrier is a hallmark of inflammatory intestinal diseases. The intestinal epithelial barrier is maintained by expression of tight junctions that connect adjacent epithelial cells and seal the paracellular space. IL-22 is critical for the maintenance of intestinal barrier function through promoting antipathogen responses and regeneration of epithelial tissues in the gut. However, little is known about the effects of IL-22 on the regulation of tight junctions in the intestinal epithelium. In this study we report that IL-22 signals exclusively through the basolateral side of polarized Caco-2 cell monolayers. IL-22 treatment does not affect the flux of uncharged macromolecules across cell monolayers but significantly reduces transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER), indicating an increase of paracellular permeability for ions. IL-22 treatment on Caco-2 monolayers and on primary human intestinal epithelium markedly induces the expression of Claudin-2, a cation-channel-forming tight junction protein. Furthermore, treatment of IL-22 in mice upregulates Claudin-2 protein in colonic epithelial cells. Knocking down Claudin-2 expression with small interfering RNA reverses the reduction of TEER in IL-22-treated cells. Moreover, IL-22-mediated upregulation of Claudin-2 and loss of TEER can be suppressed with the treatment of JAK inhibitors. In summary, our results reveal that IL-22 increases intestinal epithelial permeability by upregulating Claudin-2 expression through the JAK/STAT pathway. These results provide novel mechanistic insights into the role of IL-22 in the regulation and maintenance of the intestinal epithelial barrier.

Epithelial transport in The Journal of General Physiology

JGP hosts key papers that shaped the epithelial transport field.

Epithelia define the boundaries of the body and often transfer solutes and water from outside to inside (absorption) or from inside to outside (secretion). Those processes involve dual plasma membranes with different transport components that interact with each other. Understanding those functions has entailed breaking down the problem to analyze properties of individual membranes (apical vs. basolateral) and individual transport proteins. It also requires understanding of how those components interact and how they are regulated. This article outlines the modern history of this research as reflected by publications in The Journal of General Physiology.

A refined model of claudin-15 tight junction paracellular architecture by molecular dynamics simulations

Tight-junctions between epithelial cells of biological barriers are specialized molecular structures that regulate the flux of solutes across the barrier, parallel to cell walls. The tight-junction backbone is made of strands of transmembrane proteins from the claudin family, but the molecular mechanism of its function is still not completely understood. Recently, the crystal structure of a mammalian claudin-15 was reported, displaying for the first time the detailed features of transmembrane and extracellular domains. Successively, a structural model of claudin-15-based paracellular channels has been proposed, suggesting a putative assembly that illustrates how claudins associate in the same cell (via cis interactions) and across adjacent cells (via trans interactions). Although very promising, the model offers only a static conformation, with residues missing in the most important extracellular regions and potential steric clashes. Here we present detailed atomic models of paracellular single and double pore architectures, obtained from the putative assembly and refined via structural modeling and all-atom molecular dynamics simulations in double membrane bilayer and water environment. Our results show an overall stable configuration of the complex with a fluctuating pore size. Extracellular residue loops in trans interaction are able to form stable contacts and regulate the size of the pore, which displays a stationary radius of 2.5-3.0 Å at the narrowest region. The side-by-side interactions of the cis configuration are preserved via stable hydrogen bonds, already predicted by cysteine crosslinking experiments. Overall, this work introduces an improved version of the claudin-15-based paracellular channel model that strengthens its validity and that can be used in further computational studies to understand the structural features of tight-junctions regulation.

Water channels and barriers formed by claudins

Physiological studies in leaky epithelia, like kidney proximal tubules and the small intestine, have documented water transport via both transcellular and paracellular pathways. The discovery of aquaporin water channels provided a molecular basis for transcellular water movement. In contrast, the contribution, or even existence, of a specific paracellular water pathway has been disputed for a long time, until the cation channel-forming tight junction protein claudin-2 was shown to also permit the paracellular passage of water through its pore. In proximal kidney tubules, claudin-2-based water transport contributes 23-30% of the total water transport. Other paracellular ion channels (claudin-10a, -10b, and -17) proved to be impermeable to water, although their pore size would be sufficient for water molecules to pass. Studies of barrier-forming claudins, like claudin-1 and claudin-3, which tighten the paracellular pathway against ions and larger solutes, indicate that changes in the expression of these sealing claudins do not influence transepithelial water permeability. The present genetic, molecular, computational, and physiological studies are just now beginning to probe the mechanisms and regulation of paracellular permeation.

T cell protein tyrosine phosphatase prevents STAT1 induction of claudin-2 expression in intestinal epithelial cells

T cell protein tyrosine phosphatase (TCPTP) dephosphorylates a number of substrates, including JAK-STAT (signal transducer and activator of transcription) signaling proteins, which are activated by interferon (IFN)-γ, a major proinflammatory cytokine involved in conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease. A critical function of the intestinal epithelium is formation of a selective barrier to luminal contents. The structural units of the epithelium that regulate barrier function are the tight junctions (TJs), and the protein composition of the TJ determines the tightness of the barrier. Claudin-2 is a TJ protein that increases permeability to cations and reduces transepithelial electrical resistance (TER). We previously showed that transient knockdown (KD) of TCPTP permits increased expression of claudin-2 by IFN-γ. Here, we demonstrate that the decreased TER in TCPTP-deficient epithelial cells is alleviated by STAT1 KD. Moreover, increased claudin-2 in TCPTP-deficient cells requires enhanced STAT1 activation and STAT1 binding to the CLDN2 promoter. We also show that mutation of this STAT-binding site prevents elevated CLDN2 promoter activity in TCPTP-deficient epithelial cells. In summary, we demonstrate that TCPTP protects the intestinal epithelial barrier by restricting STAT-induced claudin-2 expression. This is a potential mechanism by which loss-of-function mutations in the gene encoding TCPTP may contribute to barrier defects in chronic intestinal inflammatory disease.

Claudin-4 knockout by TALEN-mediated gene targeting in MDCK cells: Claudin-4 is dispensable for the permeability properties of tight junctions in wild-type MDCK cells

Epithelia act as a barrier between the internal and external environments, and the movement of substances via the paracellular pathway is regulated by tight junctions (TJs). Claudins are major determinants of TJ permeability. Claudin-4 was the first claudin whose involvement in the TJ permeability in cultured cells was directly demonstrated, but the permeability properties of individual claudins including claudin-4 are still incompletely clarified. In this study, we established claudin-4 knockout cells using transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs), a recently developed method for genome editing, and investigated the permeability property of claudin-4 in MDCK II cells. We found that claudin-4 knockout has no apparent effect on the localization of other claudins and electrophysiological properties in MDCK II cells. Therefore we further established claudin-2 and claudin-4 double knockout clones and investigated the effects on TJs. Claudin-4 knockout in addition to claudin-2 knockout slightly increased the localization of other claudins at TJs but showed no obvious effects on the electrophysiological properties in MDCK II cells. These results indicate that claudin-4 is dispensable for the barrier property of TJs in wild-type as well as claudin-2 knockout MDCK II cells. Our results suggest the need for further knockout analysis to reveal the permeability properties of individual claudins.

A Novel Hypokalemic-Alkalotic Salt-Losing Tubulopathy in Patients with CLDN10 Mutations

Mice lacking distal tubular expression of CLDN10, the gene encoding the tight junction protein Claudin-10, show enhanced paracellular magnesium and calcium permeability and reduced sodium permeability in the thick ascending limb (TAL), leading to a urine concentrating defect. However, the function of renal Claudin-10 in humans remains undetermined. We identified and characterized CLDN10 mutations in two patients with a hypokalemic-alkalotic salt-losing nephropathy. The first patient was diagnosed with Bartter syndrome (BS) >30 years ago. At re-evaluation, we observed hypocalciuria and hypercalcemia, suggesting Gitelman syndrome (GS). However, serum magnesium was in the upper normal to hypermagnesemic range, thiazide responsiveness was not blunted, and genetic analyses did not show mutations in genes associated with GS or BS. Whole-exome sequencing revealed compound heterozygous CLDN10 sequence variants [c.446C>G (p.Pro149Arg) and c.465-1G>A (p.Glu157_Tyr192del)]. The patient had reduced urinary concentrating ability, with a preserved aquaporin-2 response to desmopressin and an intact response to furosemide. These findings were not in line with any other known salt-losing nephropathy. Subsequently, we identified a second unrelated patient showing a similar phenotype, in whom we detected compound heterozygous CLDN10 sequence variants [c.446C>G (p.(Pro149Arg) and c.217G>A (p.Asp73Asn)]. Cell surface biotinylation and immunofluorescence experiments in cells expressing the encoded mutants showed that only one mutation caused significant differences in Claudin-10 membrane localization and tight junction strand formation, indicating that these alterations do not fully explain the phenotype. These data suggest that pathogenic CLDN10 mutations affect TAL paracellular ion transport and cause a novel tight junction disease characterized by a non-BS, non-GS autosomal recessive hypokalemic-alkalotic salt-losing phenotype.

Paracellular transport and energy utilization in the renal tubule

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Paracellular transport across the tight junction is a general mechanism for transepithelial transport of solutes in epithelia, including the renal tubule. However, why paracellular transport evolved, given the existence of a highly versatile system for transcellular transport, is unknown.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent studies have identified the paracellular channel, claudin-2, that is responsible for paracellular reabsorption of sodium in the proximal renal tubule. Knockout of claudin-2 in mice impairs proximal sodium and fluid reabsorption but is compensated by upregulation of sodium reabsorption in the loop of Henle. This occurs at the expense of increased renal oxygen consumption, hypoxia of the outer medulla and increased susceptibility to ischemic kidney injury.

SUMMARY

Paracellular transport can be viewed as a mechanism to exploit the potential energy in existing electrochemical gradients to drive passive transepithelial transport without consuming additional energy. In this way, it enhances the efficiency of energy utilization by transporting epithelia.

Dynamic modeling of the tight junction pore pathway

Claudins define paracellular permeability to small molecules by forming ion-selective pores within the tight junction. We recently demonstrated that claudin-2 channels are gated and open and close on a submillisecond timescale. To determine if and how the ensemble behavior of this unique class of entirely extracellular gated ion channels could define global epithelial barrier function, we have developed an in silico model of local claudin-2 behavior. This model considers the complex anastomosing ultrastructure of tight junction strands and can be scaled to show that local behavior defines global epithelial barrier function of epithelial monolayers expressing different levels of claudin-2. This is the first mathematical model to describe global epithelial barrier function in terms of the dynamic behavior of single tight junction channels and establishes a framework to consider gating kinetics as a means to regulate barrier function.

Crystal structures of claudins: insights into their intermolecular interactions

Claudins are four-transmembrane proteins that constitute the backbone of tight junction strands via self-polymerization in the apicolateral membranes of epithelial cells. Together with their cell-cell adhesion function, claudin proteins form the paracellular barrier and/or channels through epithelial cell sheets whose permeability is primarily dependent on the claudin subtype. Recently determined crystal structures of several claudins revealed the unique claudin fold of four transmembrane helices in a left-handed helical bundle with an extracellular β-sheet domain. Here, we focus on the structural basis of the intermolecular interactions between claudin molecules and between the Clostridium perfringens enterotoxin and its receptor claudins.

Effect of diuretics on renal tubular transport of calcium and magnesium

Calcium (Ca2+) and Magnesium (Mg2+) reabsorption along the renal tubule is dependent on distinct trans- and paracellular pathways. Our understanding of the molecular machinery involved is increasing. Ca2+ and Mg2+ reclamation in kidney is dependent on a diverse array of proteins, which are important for both forming divalent cation-permeable pores and channels, but also for generating the necessary driving forces for Ca2+ and Mg2+ transport. Alterations in these molecular constituents can have profound effects on tubular Ca2+ and Mg2+ handling. Diuretics are used to treat a large range of clinical conditions, but most commonly for the management of blood pressure and fluid balance. The pharmacological targets of diuretics generally directly facilitate sodium (Na+) transport, but also indirectly affect renal Ca2+ and Mg2+ handling, i.e., by establishing a prerequisite electrochemical gradient. It is therefore not surprising that substantial alterations in divalent cation handling can be observed following diuretic treatment. The effects of diuretics on renal Ca2+ and Mg2+ handling are reviewed in the context of the present understanding of basal molecular mechanisms of Ca2+ and Mg2+ transport. Acetazolamide, osmotic diuretics, Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE3) inhibitors, and antidiabetic Na+/glucose cotransporter type 2 (SGLT) blocking compounds, target the proximal tubule, where paracellular Ca2+ transport predominates. Loop diuretics and renal outer medullary K+ (ROMK) inhibitors block thick ascending limb transport, a segment with significant paracellular Ca2+ and Mg2+ transport. Thiazides target the distal convoluted tubule; however, their effect on divalent cation transport is not limited to that segment. Finally, potassium-sparing diuretics, which inhibit electrogenic Na+ transport at distal sites, can also affect divalent cation transport.

Zonula occludens-2 regulates Rho proteins activity and the development of epithelial cytoarchitecture and barrier function

Silencing Zonula occludens 2 (ZO-2), a tight junctions (TJ) scaffold protein, in epithelial cells (MDCK ZO-2 KD) triggers: 1) Decreased cell to substratum attachment, accompanied by reduced expression of claudin-7 and integrin β1, and increased vinculin recruitment to focal adhesions and stress fibers formation; 2) Lowered cell-cell aggregation and appearance of wider intercellular spaces; 3) Increased RhoA/ROCK activity, mediated by GEF-HI recruitment to cell borders by cingulin; 4) Increased Cdc42 activity, mitotic spindle disorientation and the appearance of cysts with multiple lumens; 5) Increased Rac and cofilin activity, multiple lamellipodia formation and random cell migration but increased wound closure; 6) Diminished cingulin phosphorylation and disappearance of planar network of microtubules at the TJ region; and 7) Increased transepithelial electrical resistance at steady state, coupled to an increased expression of ZO-1 and claudin-4 and a decreased expression of claudin-2 and paracingulin. Hence, ZO-2 is a crucial regulator of Rho proteins activity and the development of epithelial cytoarchitecture and barrier function.

Intestinal epithelial claudins: expression and regulation in homeostasis and inflammation

The intestinal epithelium forms a highly dynamic and selective barrier that controls absorption of fluid and solutes while restricting pathogen access to underlying tissues. Barrier properties are achieved by intercellular junctions that include an apical tight junction (TJ) and subjacent adherens junctions and desmosomes. The TJ tetraspan claudin proteins form pores between epithelial cells to control paracellular fluid and ion movement. In addition to regulation of barrier function, claudin family members control epithelial homeostasis and are expressed in a spatiotemporal manner in the intestinal crypt-luminal axis. This delicate balance of physiologic differential claudin protein expression is altered during mucosal inflammation. Inflammatory mediators influence transcriptional regulation, as well as endocytic trafficking, targeting, and retention of claudins in the TJ. Increased expression of intestinal epithelial claudin-1, -2, and -18 with downregulation of claudin-3, -4, -5, -7, -8, and -12 has been observed in intestinal inflammatory disorders. Such changes in claudin proteins modify the epithelial barrier function in addition to influencing epithelial and mucosal homeostasis. An improved understanding of the regulatory mechanisms that control epithelial claudin proteins will provide strategies to strengthen the epithelial barrier function and restore mucosal homeostasis in inflammatory disorders.

Urothelial Tight Junction Barrier Dysfunction Sensitizes Bladder Afferents

Interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) is a chronic voiding disorder that presents with pain in the urinary bladder and surrounding pelvic region. A growing body of evidence suggests that an increase in the permeability of the urothelium, the epithelial barrier that lines the interior of the bladder, contributes to the symptoms of IC/BPS. To examine the consequence of increased urothelial permeability on pelvic pain and afferent excitability, we overexpressed in the urothelium claudin 2 (Cldn2), a tight junction (TJ)-associated protein whose message is significantly upregulated in biopsies of IC/BPS patients. Consistent with the presence of bladder-derived pain, rats overexpressing Cldn2 showed hypersensitivity to von Frey filaments applied to the pelvic region. Overexpression of Cldn2 increased the expression of c-Fos and promoted the activation of ERK1/2 in spinal cord segments receiving bladder input, which we conceive is the result of noxious stimulation of afferent pathways. To determine whether the mechanical allodynia observed in rats with reduced urothelial barrier function results from altered afferent activity, we examined the firing of acutely isolated bladder sensory neurons. In patch-clamp recordings, about 30% of the bladder sensory neurons from rats transduced with Cldn2, but not controls transduced with GFP, displayed spontaneous activity. Furthermore, bladder sensory neurons with tetrodotoxin-sensitive (TTX-S) action potentials from rats transduced with Cldn2 showed hyperexcitability in response to suprathreshold electrical stimulation. These findings suggest that as a result of a leaky urothelium, the diffusion of urinary solutes through the urothelial barrier sensitizes bladders afferents, promoting voiding at low filling volumes and pain.

Effects of diabetic retinopathy on the barrier functions of the retinal pigment epithelium

Diabetic retinopathy is a debilitating microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus. A rich literature describes the breakdown of retinal endothelial cells and the inner blood-retinal barrier, but the effects of diabetes on the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) has received much less attention. RPE lies between the choroid and neurosensory retina to form the outer blood-retinal barrier. RPE's specialized and dynamic barrier functions are crucial for maintaining retinal health. RPE barrier functions include a collection of interrelated structures and activities that regulate the transepithelial movement of solutes, including: diffusion through the paracellular spaces, facilitated diffusion through the cells, active transport, receptor-mediated and bulk phase transcytosis, and metabolic processing of solutes in transit. In the later stages of diabetic retinopathy, the tight junctions that regulate the paracellular space begin to disassemble, but there are earlier effects on the other aspects of RPE barrier function, particularly active transport and metabolic processing. With advanced understanding of RPE-specific barrier functions, and more in vivo-like culture models, the time is ripe for revisiting experiments in the literature to resolve controversies and extend our understanding of how diabetes affects the outer blood-retinal barrier.

Paracellular transport as a strategy for energy conservation by multicellular organisms?

Paracellular transport of solutes and water accompanies transcellular transport across epithelial barriers and together they serve to maintain internal body composition. However, whether paracellular transport is necessary and why it evolved is unknown. In this commentary I discuss our recent studies to address this question in the proximal tubule of the kidney. Paracellular reabsorption of sodium occurs in the proximal tubule and is mediated by claudin-2. However, deletion of claudin-2 in mice does not affect whole kidney sodium excretion because it can be completely compensated by downtream transcellular transport mechanisms. This occurs at the expense of increased oxygen consumption, tissue hypoxia and increased susceptibility to ischemic injury. It is concluded that paracellular transport acts as an energy saving mechanism to increase transport without consuming additional oxygen. It is speculated that this might be why paracellular transport evolved in leaky epithelia with high transport needs.

Claudin-2-mediated cation and water transport share a common pore

AIM

Claudin-2 is a tight junction protein typically located in 'leaky' epithelia exhibiting large paracellular permeabilities like small intestine and proximal kidney tubule. Former studies revealed that claudin-2 forms paracellular channels for small cations like sodium and potassium and also paracellular channels for water. This study analyses whether the diffusive transport of sodium and water occurs through a common pore of the claudin-2 channel.

METHODS

Wild-type claudin-2 and different claudin-2 mutants were expressed in MDCK I kidney tubule cells using an inducible system. Ion and water permeability and the effect of blocking reagents on both were investigated on different clones of the mutants.

RESULTS

Neutralization of a negatively charged cation interaction site in the pore with the mutation, D65N, decreased both sodium permeability and water permeability. Claudin-2 mutants (I66C and S68C) with substitution of the pore-lining amino acids with cysteine were used to test the effect of steric blocking of the claudin-2 pore by thiol-reactive reagents. Addition of thiol-reactive reagents to these mutants simultaneously decreased conductance and water permeability. Remarkably, all experimental perturbations caused parallel changes in ion conductance and water permeability, disproving different or independent passage pathways.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that claudin-2-mediated cation and water transport are frictionally coupled and share a common pore. This pore is lined and determined in permeability by amino acid residues of the first extracellular loop of claudin-2.

The mucosal barrier at a glance

Mucosal barriers separate self from non-self and are essential for life. These barriers, which are the first line of defense against external pathogens, are formed by epithelial cells and the substances they secrete. Rather than an absolute barrier, epithelia at mucosal surfaces must allow selective paracellular flux that discriminates between solutes and water while preventing the passage of bacteria and toxins. In vertebrates, tight junctions seal the paracellular space; flux across the tight junction can occur through two distinct routes that differ in selectivity, capacity, molecular composition and regulation. Dysregulation of either pathway can accompany disease. A third, tight-junction-independent route that reflects epithelial damage can also contribute to barrier loss during disease. In this Cell Science at a Glance article and accompanying poster, we present current knowledge on the molecular components and pathways that establish this selectively permeable barrier and the interactions that lead to barrier dysfunction during disease.

The intestinal epithelial barrier: a therapeutic target?

A fundamental function of the intestinal epithelium is to act as a barrier that limits interactions between luminal contents such as the intestinal microbiota, the underlying immune system and the remainder of the body, while supporting vectorial transport of nutrients, water and waste products. Epithelial barrier function requires a contiguous layer of cells as well as the junctions that seal the paracellular space between epithelial cells. Compromised intestinal barrier function has been associated with a number of disease states, both intestinal and systemic. Unfortunately, most current clinical data are correlative, making it difficult to separate cause from effect in interpreting the importance of barrier loss. Some data from experimental animal models suggest that compromised epithelial integrity might have a pathogenic role in specific gastrointestinal diseases, but no FDA-approved agents that target the epithelial barrier are presently available. To develop such therapies, a deeper understanding of both disease pathogenesis and mechanisms of barrier regulation must be reached. Here, we review and discuss mechanisms of intestinal barrier loss and the role of intestinal epithelial barrier function in pathogenesis of both intestinal and systemic diseases. We conclude with a discussion of potential strategies to restore the epithelial barrier.

Physiological roles of claudins in kidney tubule paracellular transport

The paracellular pathways in renal tubular epithelia such as the proximal tubules, which reabsorb the largest fraction of filtered solutes and water and are leaky epithelia, are important routes for transepithelial transport of solutes and water. Movement occurs passively via an extracellular route through the tight junction between cells. The characteristics of paracellular transport vary among different nephron segments with leaky or tighter epithelia. Claudins expressed at tight junctions form pores and barriers for paracellular transport. Claudins are from a multigene family, comprising at least 27 members in mammals. Multiple claudins are expressed at tight junctions of individual nephron segments in a nephron segment-specific manner. Over the last decade, there have been advances in our understanding of the structure and functions of claudins. This paper is a review of our current knowledge of claudins, with special emphasis on their physiological roles in proximal tubule paracellular solute and water transport.

Tight junctions in pulmonary epithelia during lung inflammation

Inflammatory lung diseases like asthma bronchiale, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and allergic airway inflammation are widespread public diseases that constitute an enormous burden to the health systems. Mainly classified as inflammatory diseases, the treatment focuses on strategies interfering with local inflammatory responses by the immune system. Inflammatory lung diseases predispose patients to severe lung failures like alveolar oedema, respiratory distress syndrome and acute lung injury. These life-threatening syndromes are caused by increased permeability of the alveolar and airway epithelium and exudate formation. However, the mechanism underlying epithelium barrier breakdown in the lung during inflammation is elusive. This review emphasises the role of the tight junction of the airway epithelium as the predominating structure conferring epithelial tightness and preventing exudate formation and the impact of inflammatory perturbations on their function.

Gluten-induced symptoms in diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome are associated with increased myosin light chain kinase activity and claudin-15 expression

The mechanisms underlying diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D) are poorly understood, but increased intestinal permeability is thought to contribute to symptoms. A recent clinical trial of gluten-free diet (GFD) demonstrated symptomatic improvement, relative to gluten-containing diet (GCD), which was associated with reduced intestinal permeability in non-celiac disease IBS-D patients. The aim of this study was to characterize intestinal epithelial tight junction composition in IBS-D before and after dietary gluten challenge. Biopsies from 27 IBS-D patients (13 GFD and 14 GCD) were examined by H&E staining and semiquantitative immunohistochemistry for phosphorylated myosin II regulatory light chain (MLC), MLC kinase, claudin-2, claudin-8 and claudin-15. Diet-induced changes were assessed and correlated with urinary mannitol excretion (after oral administration). In the small intestine, epithelial MLC phosphorylation was increased or decreased by GCD or GFD, respectively, and this correlated with increased intestinal permeability (P<0.03). Colonocyte expression of the paracellular Na⁺ channel claudin-15 was also markedly augmented following GCD challenge (P<0.05). Conversely, colonic claudin-2 expression correlated with reduced intestinal permeability (P<0.03). Claudin-8 expression was not affected by dietary challenge. These data show that alterations in MLC phosphorylation and claudin-15 and claudin-2 expression are associated with gluten-induced symptomatology and intestinal permeability changes in IBS-D. The results provide new insight into IBS-D mechanisms and can explain permeability responses to gluten challenge in these patients.

Claudins in barrier and transport function-the kidney

Claudins are discovered to be key players in renal epithelial physiology. They are involved in developmental, physiological, and pathophysiological differentiation. In the glomerular podocytes, claudin-1 is an important determinant of cell junction fate. In the proximal tubule, claudin-2 plays important roles in paracellular salt reabsorption. In the thick ascending limb, claudin-14, -16, and -19 regulate the paracellular reabsorption of calcium and magnesium. Recessive mutations in claudin-16 or -19 cause an inherited calcium and magnesium losing disease. Synonymous variants in claudin-14 have been associated with hypercalciuric nephrolithiasis by genome-wide association studies (GWASs). More importantly, claudin-14 gene expression can be regulated by extracellular calcium levels via the calcium sensing receptor. In the distal tubules, claudin-4 and -8 form paracellular chloride pathway to facilitate electrogenic sodium reabsorption. Aldosterone, WNK4, Cap1, and KLHL3 are powerful regulators of claudin and the paracellular chloride permeability. The lessons learned on claudins from the kidney will have a broader impact on tight junction biology in other epithelia and endothelia.

Effects of Osmolality on Paracellular Transport in MDCK II Cells

Epithelia separate apical and basal compartments, and movement of substances via the paracellular pathway is regulated by tight junctions. Claudins are major constituents of tight junctions and involved in the regulation of tight junction permeability. On the other hand, the osmolality in the extracellular environment fluctuates in association with life activity. However, effects of osmotic changes on the permeaibility of claudins are poorly understood. Therefore, we investigated the effects of osmotic changes on the paracellular transport in MDCK II cells. Interestingly, apical hyposmolality decreased cation selectivity in the paracellular pathway gradually with time, and the elimination of the osmotic gradient promptly restored the cation selectivity. Apical hyposmolality also induced bleb formation at cell-cell contacts and changed the shape of cell-cell contacts from a jagged pattern to a slightly linear pattern. In claudin-2 knockout MDCK II cells, the decrease of cation selectivity, the bleb formation, nor the changes in the shape of cell-cell contacts was observed under the apical hyposmolality. Our findings in this study indicate that osmotic gradient between apical and basal sides is involved in the acute regulation of the cation selective property of claudin-2 channels.

Fluid and ion transfer across the blood-brain and blood-cerebrospinal fluid barriers; a comparative account of mechanisms and roles

The two major interfaces separating brain and blood have different primary roles. The choroid plexuses secrete cerebrospinal fluid into the ventricles, accounting for most net fluid entry to the brain. Aquaporin, AQP1, allows water transfer across the apical surface of the choroid epithelium; another protein, perhaps GLUT1, is important on the basolateral surface. Fluid secretion is driven by apical Na+-pumps. K+ secretion occurs via net paracellular influx through relatively leaky tight junctions partially offset by transcellular efflux. The blood-brain barrier lining brain microvasculature, allows passage of O2, CO2, and glucose as required for brain cell metabolism. Because of high resistance tight junctions between microvascular endothelial cells transport of most polar solutes is greatly restricted. Because solute permeability is low, hydrostatic pressure differences cannot account for net fluid movement; however, water permeability is sufficient for fluid secretion with water following net solute transport. The endothelial cells have ion transporters that, if appropriately arranged, could support fluid secretion. Evidence favours a rate smaller than, but not much smaller than, that of the choroid plexuses. At the blood-brain barrier Na+ tracer influx into the brain substantially exceeds any possible net flux. The tracer flux may occur primarily by a paracellular route. The blood-brain barrier is the most important interface for maintaining interstitial fluid (ISF) K+ concentration within tight limits. This is most likely because Na+-pumps vary the rate at which K+ is transported out of ISF in response to small changes in K+ concentration. There is also evidence for functional regulation of K+ transporters with chronic changes in plasma concentration. The blood-brain barrier is also important in regulating HCO3- and pH in ISF: the principles of this regulation are reviewed. Whether the rate of blood-brain barrier HCO3- transport is slow or fast is discussed critically: a slow transport rate comparable to those of other ions is favoured. In metabolic acidosis and alkalosis variations in HCO3- concentration and pH are much smaller in ISF than in plasma whereas in respiratory acidosis variations in pHISF and pHplasma are similar. The key similarities and differences of the two interfaces are summarized.

Structural basis for disruption of claudin assembly in tight junctions by an enterotoxin

The food-poisoning bacterium Clostridium perfringens produces an enterotoxin (~35 kDa) that specifically targets human claudin-4, among the 26 human claudin proteins, and causes diarrhea by fluid accumulation in the intestinal cavity. The C-terminal domain of the Clostridium perfringens enterotoxin (C-CPE, ~15 kDa) binds tightly to claudin-4, and disrupts the intestinal tight junction barriers. In this study, we determined the 3.5-Å resolution crystal structure of the cell-free synthesized human claudin-4•C-CPE complex, which is significantly different from the structure of the off-target complex of an engineered C-CPE with mouse claudin-19. The claudin-4•C-CPE complex structure demonstrated the mechanism underlying claudin assembly disruption. A comparison of the present C-CPE-bound structure of claudin-4 with the enterotoxin-free claudin-15 structure revealed sophisticated C-CPE-induced conformation changes of the extracellular segments, induced on the foundation of the rigid four-transmembrane-helix bundle structure. These conformation changes provide a mechanistic model for the disruption of the lateral assembly of claudin molecules. Furthermore, the present novel structural mechanism for selecting a specific member of the claudin family can be used as the foundation to develop novel medically important technologies to selectively regulate the tight junctions formed by claudin family members in different organs.

The serine protease-mediated increase in intestinal epithelial barrier function is dependent on occludin and requires an intact tight junction

Barrier dysfunction is a characteristic of the inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Understanding how the tight junction is modified to maintain barrier function may provide avenues for treatment of IBD. We have previously shown that the apical addition of serine proteases to intestinal epithelial cell lines causes a rapid and sustained increase in transepithelial electrical resistance (TER), but the mechanisms are unknown. We hypothesized that serine proteases increase barrier function through trafficking and insertion of tight junction proteins into the membrane, and this could enhance recovery of a disrupted monolayer after calcium switch or cytokine treatment. In the canine epithelial cell line, SCBN, we showed that matriptase, an endogenous serine protease, could potently increase TER. Using detergent solubility-based cell fractionation, we found that neither trypsin nor matriptase treatment changed levels of tight junction proteins at the membrane. In a fast calcium switch assay, serine proteases did not enhance the rate of recovery of the junction. In addition, serine proteases could not reverse barrier disruption induced by IFNγ and TNFα. We knocked down occludin in our cells using siRNA and found this prevented the serine protease-induced increase in TER. Using fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP), we found serine proteases induce a greater mobile fraction of occludin in the membrane. These data suggest that a functional tight junction is needed for serine proteases to have an effect on TER, and that occludin is a crucial tight junction protein in this mechanism.

The role of claudins in cancer metastasis

TJs are large intercellular adhesion complexes that maintain cell polarity in normal epithelia and endothelia. During the metastatic process, TJs must be 'loosened' or dismantled in cancer cells to enable migration and dissemination. Diminished TJ integrity must also occur within endothelial cells to allow intravasation and extravasation of cancer cells across endothelial barriers. Claudins are critical components of TJs, forming homo- and heteromeric interactions between the adjacent cells, which have been implicated as key modulators of carcinogenesis and metastasis. Numerous epithelial-derived cancers display altered claudin expression patterns and certain claudins can now be used as biomarkers to predict patient prognosis. Moreover, claudins have been functionally implicated in numerous steps of the metastatic cascade. The distinct roles played by claudins during the cancer progression to metastatic disease are just starting to be elucidated. A more complete understanding of the mechanisms through which claudins augment cancer metastasis is required to develop new therapeutic agents against this family of proteins. In this review, we will summarize the relationship between the claudin expression and clinical outcomes in diverse cancers, discuss tumor intrinisic roles through which claudins regulate metastasis and explore claudin-mediated functions within stromal cells that influence the metastatic process. Finally, we will consider possible strategies for targeting claudins that have the potential to improve the management of metastatic cancer.

Tight junctions: from simple barriers to multifunctional molecular gates

Epithelia and endothelia separate different tissue compartments and protect multicellular organisms from the outside world. This requires the formation of tight junctions, selective gates that control paracellular diffusion of ions and solutes. Tight junctions also form the border between the apical and basolateral plasma-membrane domains and are linked to the machinery that controls apicobasal polarization. Additionally, signalling networks that guide diverse cell behaviours and functions are connected to tight junctions, transmitting information to and from the cytoskeleton, nucleus and different cell adhesion complexes. Recent advances have broadened our understanding of the molecular architecture and cellular functions of tight junctions.

Paracellular epithelial sodium transport maximizes energy efficiency in the kidney

Efficient oxygen utilization in the kidney may be supported by paracellular epithelial transport, a form of passive diffusion that is driven by preexisting transepithelial electrochemical gradients. Claudins are tight-junction transmembrane proteins that act as paracellular ion channels in epithelial cells. In the proximal tubule (PT) of the kidney, claudin-2 mediates paracellular sodium reabsorption. Here, we used murine models to investigate the role of claudin-2 in maintaining energy efficiency in the kidney. We found that claudin-2-null mice conserve sodium to the same extent as WT mice, even during profound dietary sodium depletion, as a result of the upregulation of transcellular Na-K-2Cl transport activity in the thick ascending limb of Henle. We hypothesized that shifting sodium transport to transcellular pathways would lead to increased whole-kidney oxygen consumption. Indeed, compared with control animals, oxygen consumption in the kidneys of claudin-2-null mice was markedly increased, resulting in medullary hypoxia. Furthermore, tubular injury in kidneys subjected to bilateral renal ischemia-reperfusion injury was more severe in the absence of claudin-2. Our results indicate that paracellular transport in the PT is required for efficient utilization of oxygen in the service of sodium transport. We speculate that paracellular permeability may have evolved as a general strategy in epithelial tissues to maximize energy efficiency.

Ways of calcium reabsorption in the kidney

The role of the kidney in calcium homeostasis has been reshaped from a classic view in which the kidney was regulated by systemic calcitropic hormones such as vitamin D3 or parathyroid hormone to an organ actively taking part in the regulation of calcium handling. With the identification of the intrinsic renal calcium-sensing receptor feedback system, the regulation of paracellular calcium transport involving claudins, and new paracrine regulators such as klotho, the kidney has emerged as a crucial modulator not only of calciuria but also of calcium homeostasis. This review summarizes recent molecular and endocrine contributors to renal calcium handling and highlights the tight link between calcium and sodium reabsorption in the kidney.

Claudin-1, -2 and -3 Are Selectively Expressed in the Epithelia of the Choroid Plexus of the Mouse from Early Development and into Adulthood While Claudin-5 is Restricted to Endothelial Cells

A primary function of epithelial and endothelial monolayers is the formation of barriers that separate tissues into functional compartments. Tight junctions (TJs) seal the intercellular space between the single cells of a monolayer. TJs thus contribute importantly to the homeostasis of the cerebrospinal fluid as they help in maintaining the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier (CSF). The composition of TJs differs by its localization as well as the stage of development according to its respective function. Claudin-3 is typically present in the epithelia and has been claimed to be a constituent of the BBB. It is, however, notoriously difficult to demonstrate its expression in endothelial cells of the brain vasculature at the morphological level by means of immunohistochemical techniques. Using an improved fixation strategy (4% paraformaldehyde at pH 11, in the presence of EDTA) and the sensitive alkaline phosphatase as a detection system, we show that claudin-3 is present in mouse epithelia from embryonic day 14 onwards. In brain, it is restricted to the anlage of choroid plexus in the ventricles, together with claudin-1 and -2. In adult mice, it is clearly delineating the epithelium of the choroid plexus in the lateral and fourth ventricles. In contrast, in cerebral blood vessels claudin-3 as well as claudin-1 and -2 are absent in cerebral blood vessels during all developmental stages up to adulthood. Rather, the BBB is characterized by the presence of claudin-5, ZO-1 and occludin. Thus, in mice claudin-3 is an important constituent of TJ in the embryonic and in the adult choroid plexus.

Water and ion permeability of a claudin model: A computational study

At present, the three-dimensional structure of the multimeric paracellular claudin pore is unknown. Using extant biophysical data concerning the size of the pore and permeation of water and cations through it, two three-dimensional models of the pore are constructed in silico. Molecular Dynamics (MD) calculations are then performed to compute water and sodium ion permeation fluxes under the influence of applied hydrostatic pressure. Comparison to experiment is made, under the assumption that the hydrostatic pressure applied in the simulations is equivalent to osmotic pressure induced in experimental measurements of water/ion permeability. One model, in which pore-lining charged is distributed evenly over a selectivity filter section 10-16 Å in length, is found to be generally consistent with experimental data concerning the dependence of water and ion permeation on channel pore diameter, pore length, and the sign and magnitude of pore lining charge. The molecular coupling mechanism between water and ion flow under conditions where hydrostatic pressure is applied is computationally elucidated.

Viral interactions with the blood-brain barrier: old dog, new tricks

Brain endothelial cells form a unique cellular structure known as the tight junction to regulate the exchanges between the blood and the parenchyma by limiting the paracellular diffusion of blood-borne substance. Together with the restricted pathway of transcytosis, the tight junction in the brain endothelial cells provides the central nervous system (CNS) with effective protection against both the foreign pathogens and the host immune cells, which is also termed the "blood-brain barrier." The blood-brain barrier is particularly important for defending against neurotropic viral infections that have become a major source of diseases worldwide. Many neurotropic viruses are able to cross the BBB and infect the CNS through very poorly understood processes. This review focuses upon the structural and functional changes of the brain endothelial tight junction in response to viral infections in the CNS and how the tight junction changes may be studied with advanced imaging and recording approaches to reveal novel processes used by the viruses to cross the barrier system. Additional emphasis is placed upon new countermeasures that can act directly upon the tight junction to improve the pathogen clearance and minimize the inflammatory damage.

Claudin-21 Has a Paracellular Channel Role at Tight Junctions

Claudin protein family members, of which there are at least 27 in humans and mice, polymerize to form tight junctions (TJs) between epithelial cells, in a tissue- and developmental stage-specific manner. Claudins have a paracellular barrier function. In addition, certain claudins function as paracellular channels for small ions and/or solutes by forming selective pores at the TJs, although the specific claudins involved and their functional mechanisms are still in question. Here we show for the first time that claudin-21, which is more highly expressed in the embryonic than the postnatal stages, acts as a paracellular channel for small cations, such as Na(+), similar to the typical channel-type claudins claudin-2 and -15. Claudin-21 also allows the paracellular passage of larger solutes. Our findings suggest that claudin-21-based TJs allow the passage of small and larger solutes by both paracellular channel-based and some additional mechanisms.

Molecular basis of claudin-17 anion selectivity

Claudin-17 is a paracellular channel-forming tight junction protein. Unlike the cation channels claudin-2 and -15, claudin-17 forms a distinct anion-selective channel. Aim of this study was to determine the molecular basis of channel formation and charge selectivity of this protein. To achieve this, residues located in the extracellular loops (ECL) 1 and 2 of claudin-17 were substituted, preferably those whose charges differed in claudin-17 and in claudin-2 or -15. The respective mutants were stably expressed in MDCK C7 cells and their ability to form charge-selective channels was analyzed by measuring ion permeabilities and transepithelial electrical resistance. The functional data were combined with homology modeling of the claudin-17 protomer using the structure of claudin-15 as template. In ECL1, K65, R31, E48, and E44 were found to be stronger involved in Cldn17 channel function than the clustered R45, R56, R59, and R61. For K65, not only charge but also stereochemical properties were crucial for formation of the anion-selective channel. In ECL2, both Y149 and H154 were found to contribute to constitution of the anion channel in a distinct manner. In conclusion, we provide insight into the molecular mechanism of the formation of charge- and size-selective paracellular ion channels. In detail, we propose a hydrophilic furrow in the claudin-17 protomer spanning from a gap between the ends of TM2 and TM3 along R31, E48, and Y67 to a gap between K65 and S68 lining the anion channel.

Effects of Hydrostatic Pressure on Carcinogenic Properties of Epithelia

The relationship between chronic inflammation and cancer is well known. The inflammation increases the permeability of blood vessels and consequently elevates pressure in the interstitial tissues. However, there have been only a few reports on the effects of hydrostatic pressure on cultured cells, and the relationship between elevated hydrostatic pressure and cell properties related to malignant tumors is less well understood. Therefore, we investigated the effects of hydrostatic pressure on the cultured epithelial cells seeded on permeable filters. Surprisingly, hydrostatic pressure from basal to apical side induced epithelial stratification in Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) I and Caco-2 cells, and cavities with microvilli and tight junctions around their surfaces were formed within the multi-layered epithelia. The hydrostatic pressure gradient also promoted cell proliferation, suppressed cell apoptosis, and increased transepithelial ion permeability. The inhibition of protein kinase A (PKA) promoted epithelial stratification by the hydrostatic pressure whereas the activation of PKA led to suppressed epithelial stratification. These results indicate the role of the hydrostatic pressure gradient in the regulation of various epithelial cell functions. The findings in this study may provide clues for the development of a novel strategy for the treatment of the carcinoma.

Claudin-2-dependent paracellular channels are dynamically gated

Intercellular tight junctions form selectively permeable barriers that seal the paracellular space. Trans-tight junction flux has been measured across large epithelial surfaces, but conductance across individual channels has never been measured. We report a novel trans-tight junction patch clamp technique that detects flux across individual claudin-2 channels within the tight junction of cultured canine renal tubule or human intestinal epithelial monolayers. In both cells, claudin-2 channels display conductances of ~90 pS. The channels are gated, strictly dependent on claudin-2 expression, and display size- and charge-selectivity typical of claudin-2. Kinetic analyses indicate one open and two distinct closed states. Conductance is symmetrical and reversible, characteristic of a passive, paracellular process, and blocked by reduced temperature or site-directed mutagenesis and chemical derivatization of the claudin-2 pore. We conclude that claudin-2 forms gated paracellular channels and speculate that modulation of tight junction channel gating kinetics may be an unappreciated mechanism of barrier regulation.

DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.09906.001

Epithelial cells form layers that line the inner surface of the gut, lungs and other organs. They act as barriers to control the movement of water, ions and small molecules between internal compartments within the body and the external environment. Some substances are transported across these barriers by passing through individual epithelial cells, but others pass through the spaces between adjacent cells. These spaces are sealed by tight junctions. If the tight junctions do not work properly, it can cause problems with regulating the movement of molecules across epithelial-lined surfaces. This in turn can contribute to diseases in humans, including inflammatory bowel disease and chronic kidney disease.

Proteins called claudins form channels that only allow certain molecules to pass through tight junctions. One member of this family, called claudin-2, allows sodium ions and other small positively charged ions to cross between adjacent cells. However, it is not clear how these channels work, largely due to the absence of appropriate tools to study this process. Here, Weber et al. adapted a technique called patch clamping to study the behavior of individual claudin-2 channels in the tight junctions between mammalian epithelial cells.

Weber et al. found that claudin-2 allows positively charged ions to move across a tight junction in short bursts rather than in a steady stream as had been suggested by previous work. These bursts typically begin and end in less than a millisecond. Further experiments revealed that claudin-2 channels have several states; in one state the channel is fully open, in another the channel is firmly closed, and in the third state the channel is temporarily closed but primed to open.

Further experiments show that mutations in the gene that encodes claudin-2 or drugs that inhibit claudin-2's function alter the open and closed behaviors of these trans-tight junction channels. The technique developed by Weber et al. will enable researchers to understand how channel proteins at tight junctions assemble and operate. Such studies may lead to the development of drugs that can alter the activity of these channels to treat particular diseases.

DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.09906.002

Necrotizing enterocolitis in a mouse model leads to widespread renal inflammation, acute kidney injury, and disruption of renal tight junction proteins

BACKGROUND

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a devastating condition affecting premature infants and leads to high mortality and chronic morbidity. Severe form of NEC is associated with acute renal failure, fluid imbalance, hyponatremia, and acidosis. We investigated the effect of NEC on tight junction (TJ) proteins in kidneys using a NEC mouse model to investigate the basis for the observed renal dysfunction.

METHODS

NEC was induced in C57BL/6 mice by formula feeding and subjecting them to periods of hypoxia and cold stress. NEC was confirmed by gross and histological examination. We studied various markers of inflammation in kidneys and investigated changes in expression of several TJ proteins and AQP2 using immunofluorecent staining and western blotting.

RESULTS

We found markedly increased expression of NFκB, TGFβ, and ERK1/2 along with claudin-1, -2, -3, -4, -8, and AQP-2 in NEC kidneys. The membrane localization of claudin-2 was altered in the NEC kidneys and its immunostaining signal at TJ was disrupted.

CONCLUSION

NEC led to a severe inflammatory response not only in the gut but also in the kidneys. NEC increased expression of several TJ proteins and caused disruption of claudin-2 in renal tubules. These observed changes can help explain some of the clinical findings observed in NEC.