CLDN4

Claudin 4, also known as CLDN4, is a protein which in humans is encoded by the CLDN4 gene. It belongs to the group of claudins.
This gene encodes an integral [membrane protein], which belongs to the claudin family. The protein is a component of tight junction strands and may play a role in internal organ development and function during pre- and postnatal life. This gene is deleted in Williams-Beuren syndrome, a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting multiple systems.
Claudin 4 can also be used as a marker for distinguishing malignant mesothelioma from lung cancer and uterine serous carcinoma. As a pancreatic cancer marker in cell-blocks of effusion specimens, it has also been found to have a superior performance to BerEp4 staining.