Function
The protein encoded by this gene belongs to the claudin family of tight junction associated proteins and is a major component of central nervous system myelin that is necessary for normal CNS function, [9] hearing, [10] and spermatogenesis. [8] There is growing evidence that the protein determines the permeability between layers of myelin sheaths [11] and, with its expression highly regulated during development, may play an important role in cellular proliferation and migration. In addition, the protein is a candidate autoantigen in the development of autoimmune demyelinating disease. [7] Finally, experiments in Cldn11-null mice demonstrate that behavioral phenotypes in open field tests, as well as defects in sound lateralization, accompany changes in neurotransmitter levels in the amygdala/ventral hippocampus and auditory brainstem. This study reveals a molecular mechanism by which changes to myelin membrane properties in the absence of degenerative pathology, could lead to neuropsychiatric disease in humans. [12]
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