Is there any modulating factor affecting the tightness of tight junction?

Question

anonymous · Answer

I'm not sure of an exact factor affecting the tightness, but I do recall that the tightness varies with the location (and therefore function) of the tight junction, I believe.

In the kidney tubules, the tight junctions are much more resistant to Na+ diffusion, whereas in the intestines, they are more leaky, if I recall correctly. Hope that helps a bit!

anonymous · Answer

Thanks @kma230. I knew that the tightness can vary because of the location. I'm also curious to know if is there any chemical that can affect the tightness.

anonymous · Answer

Well, chemical factors being released internally to the blood stream may regulate the tightness. An example of such a chemical would be Phospholipase C (PLP).