Segmental expression of claudin proteins correlates with tight junction barrier properties in rat intestine

In tubular epithelia, barrier function varies in a segment-specific way. The aim of this study was to correlate the presence of tight junction proteins and paracellular barrier properties along rat intestine. Tissue segments of duodenum, jejunum, ileum, and colon were stripped of submucosal cell layers and mounted in Ussing chambers for impedance spectroscopy to measure epithelial resistance (R (epi)). In parallel, expression of tight junction proteins was analysed by Western blots and immune fluorescence confocal microscopy. Colon showed highest R (epi), followed by duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. In small intestine, common transepithelial resistance (R (trans) or TER) overestimated true R (epi) by similar to 60%. In colon, strongest expression of tightening claudins 1, 3, 4, 5, and 8 was detected. In accordance with R (epi) the most proximal of the small intestinal segments, duodenum exhibited highest expression of tightening claudins and lowest expression of claudins mediating permeability, namely claudin-2, -7, and -12, compared to jejunum and ileum. These results correspond to the specific role of the duodenum as the first segment facing the acidic gastric content.