COMPOUNDS AND METHODS FOR MODULATING CLAUDIN-MEDIATED FUNCTIONS

摘要

Methods for using modulating agents to enhance or inhibit claudin-mediated cell adhesion in a variety of in vivo and in vitro contexts are provided. Within certain embodiments, the modulating agents may be used to increase blood/brain barrier permeability. The modulating agents comprise at least on e claudin cell adhesion recognition sequence or an antibody or fragment thereo f that specifically binds the claudin cell adhesion recognition sequence. Modulating agents may additionally comprise one or more cell adhesion recognition sequences recognized by other adhesion molecules. Such modulatin g agents may, but need not, be linked to a targeting agent, drug and/or suppor t material.