Claudin-18 expression under hypoxia in neonatel lungs of brochopulmonary
dysplasia model rats
Abstract
Background: Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is characterized by
impaired alveolar and microvascular development. Claudin-18 is the only
known lung-specific tight junction protein affecting alveolar epithelium
development and transdifferentiation. Objective: To explore the changes
in claudin-18 expression, alveolar epithelial cell (AEC) marker
proteins, the canonical Wnt pathway, and their possible regulatory
relationships in a hyperoxia-induced BPD rat model. Methods: The BPD
neonatal rat model was established by exposure to hyperoxia (85%).
Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining was used to confirm the
establishment of the BPD model. The mRNA levels were assessed using
quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, while protein
expression levels were determined using western blotting,
immunohistochemical staining, and immunofluorescence . Results: As
confirmed by HE staining, the BPD neonatal rat model was successfully
established. Compared with the air group, claudin-18 and claudin-4
expression decreased in the hyperoxia group. The expression of β-catenin
of the Wnt signaling decreased, whereas that of p-GSK-3β increased.
Expression of the AEC Ⅱ marker SFTPC decreased initially and then
increased, whereas that of the AEC Ⅰ marker Podoplanin increased on day
14 (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Claudin-18 downregulation during
hyperoxia may affect lung development and maturation, which may result
in hyperoxia-induced BPD. Additionally, claudin-18 is associated with
the canonical Wnt pathway and alveolar epithelial transdifferentiation.