Ectopic expression of CLDN2 in podocytes is associated with childhood onset nephrotic syndrome

Animal models of nephrotic syndrome (NS) revealed that tight junction (TJ)-like structures are generated together with a concomitant decrease in slit diaphragms (SDs). Claudins (CLDNs) are capable of forming TJ strands and thereby the backbone of TJs. We showed the ectopic expression of CLDN2 in podocytes in pediatric NS, and detected its localization