Colonic Crypt Stem Cell Functions Are Controlled by Tight Junction Protein Claudin-7 Through Notch/Hippo Signaling

Scientists explored the role of claudin-7 in regulating colonic intestinal stem cell function. In 3D colonoid culture, claudin-7–deficient crypts were unable to survive and form spheroids. Inhibition of the Hippo pathway or activation of Notch signaling partially rescued the defective stem cell behavior.