The human intestinal epithelium is formed by a single layer of epithelial cells that separates
the intestinal lumen from the underlying lamina propria. The space between these cells is
sealed by tight junctions (TJ), which regulate the permeability of the intestinal barrier. TJ are
complex protein structures comprised of transmembrane proteins, which interact with the
actin cytoskeleton via plaque proteins. Signaling pathways involved in the assembly,
disassembly, and maintenance of TJ are controlled by a number of signaling molecules …