Clipping EpCAM to release Claudin-7 for the greater good of the epithelial barrier

J Cell Biol. 2023 Jan 2;222(1):e202211127. doi: 10.1083/jcb.202211127. Epub 2022 Dec 14.

Abstract

Maintenance of epithelial barrier function requires dynamic repair and remodeling of tight junctions. In this issue, Higashi et al. (2022. J. Cell Biol.https://doi.org/10.1083/jcb.202204079) demonstrate that the proteolytic cleavage of EpCAM by membrane-anchored serine proteinases releases Claudin-7 to join tight junctions, suggesting a novel mechanism that couples sensing with repair of damaged tight junctions.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Comment

MeSH terms

  • Claudins* / genetics
  • Claudins* / metabolism
  • Epithelial Cell Adhesion Molecule* / genetics
  • Epithelial Cell Adhesion Molecule* / metabolism
  • Epithelial Cells / metabolism
  • Proteolysis
  • Serine Proteases* / metabolism
  • Tight Junctions* / metabolism

Substances

  • Claudins
  • Epithelial Cell Adhesion Molecule
  • Serine Proteases