Plays a major role in tight junction-specific obliteration of the intercellular space, through calcium-independent cell-adhesion activity. (Microbial infection) Acts as a receptor for hepatitis C virus (HCV) entry into hepatic cells. Interacts with CLDN1, CD81 and OCLN (PubMed:20375010). Expressed in the liver, in peripheral blood mononuclear cells and hepatocarcinoma cell lines. The disease is caused by variants affecting the gene represented in this entry. Belongs to the claudin family.