CLDN18

This gene encodes a member of the claudin family. Claudins are integral membrane proteins and components of tight junction strands. Tight junction strands serve as a physical barrier to prevent solutes and water from passing freely through the paracellular space between epithelial or endothelial cell sheets, and also play critical roles in maintaining cell polarity and signal transductions. This gene is upregulated in patients with ulcerative colitis and highly overexpressed in infiltrating ductal adenocarcinomas. PKC/MAPK/AP-1 (protein kinase C/mitogen-activated protein kinase/activator protein-1) dependent pathway regulates the expression of this gene in gastric cells. Alternatively spliced transcript variants encoding different isoforms have been identified. [provided by RefSeq, Jun 2010]

A protein domain is a distinct structural or functional region within a protein that can evolve, function, and exist independently of the rest of the protein chain. These domains in human CLDN18 often fold into stable, three-dimensional structures and are associated with specific biological functions, such as binding to DNA, other proteins, or small molecules.

Biological processes and signaling networks where the CLDN18 gene in human plays a role, providing insight into its function and relevance in health or disease.

The most significant associations for this gene, including commonly observed domains, pathway involvement, and functional highlights based on current data.

Locations within the cell where the protein is known or predicted to be active, providing insight into its function and cellular context.

Describes the biological processes, cellular components, and molecular functions associated with the human CLDN18 gene, providing context for its role in the cell.