CLDN11

CLDN11 encodes Claudin-11, an integral membrane protein also known as oligodendrocyte-specific protein (OSP). It is a core component of tight junctions in central nervous system (CNS) myelin sheaths and peripheral nervous system (PNS) Schwann cells, mediating intercellular adhesion to maintain myelin structural integrity and support efficient saltatory nerve impulse conduction.
Dysregulation of CLDN11 is linked to demyelinating disorders like Pelizaeus-Merzbacher-like disease type 2 (PMLD2), caused by loss-of-function mutations. While specific CLDN11-targeted drugs remain in preclinical stages, research focuses on modulating tight junction dynamics or promoting myelin repair to address associated neurological deficits.