The Effect of Aquaporins on Disease Pathophysiology
Keywords:
Aquaporin, disease,, Physiology,, pathologyAbstract
Water and its transport are vital for the survival of living organisms. Cell membranes possess a complex structure that regulates this transport process. Aquaporins are integral membrane proteins located on cell membranes and are centrally responsible for facilitating the selective and rapid passage of water. They regulate cell water balance, thereby maintaining osmotic balance, cell volume, and homeostasis. Many different types of aquaporins have been identified, each serving distinct functions in specific tissues. Physiologically, these proteins are expressed in normal tissues and organs and contribute to bodily homeostasis. However, their abnormal expression or mutations in disease-related conditions can lead to various health problems, leading to increased or decreased expression. Therefore, aquaporins are important biomarkers in the pathogenesis of many diseases. This study provides an overview of the pathophysiological roles of aquaporins in disorders of other systems, particularly cancer, urinary, neurological, and ophthalmic diseases. In addition, whether these proteins have therapeutic effects in diseases and where they can be used in the future are discussed.
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