CXADR-Like Membrane Protein (CLMP) Protein

Background

CLMP is a transmembrane protein belonging to the immunoglobulin superfamily and shares structural similarity with the coxsackie and adenovirus receptor (CXADR). CLMP is widely expressed in epithelial and endothelial tissues, where it contributes to tight junction formation and maintenance of cell polarity. It mediates homophilic adhesion and strengthens intercellular junctions, playing a role in epithelial barrier integrity. Mutations in CLMP have been linked to congenital short bowel syndrome, a rare developmental disorder characterized by reduced intestinal length due to impaired embryonic gut elongation. CLMP is thought to regulate cellular signaling pathways that influence proliferation and differentiation during organogenesis. In addition to its developmental roles, CLMP has been implicated in regulating vascular permeability and may contribute to immune cell trafficking in inflammatory conditions. Structurally, CLMP contains extracellular immunoglobulin-like domains that mediate adhesion and intracellular domains that interact with cytoskeletal proteins to stabilize cell-cell junctions. Dysregulation of CLMP expression has been observed in certain cancers, suggesting a potential role in tumor progression and metastasis. Current research focuses on understanding its signaling mechanisms and exploring its therapeutic potential in tissue repair and developmental disorders.