Aquaporin 1

Aquaporin 1 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the AQP1 gene.

AQP1 is a widely expressed water channel, whose physiological function has been most thoroughly characterized in the kidney. It is found in the basolateral and apical plasma membranes of the proximal tubules, the descending limb of the loop of Henle, and in the descending portion of the vasa recta. Additionally, it is found in red blood cells, vascular endothelium, the gastrointestinal tract, sweat glands, and lungs.

It is not regulated by vasopressin (ADH).

Function

Aquaporins are a family of small integral membrane proteins related to the major intrinsic protein (MIP or AQP0). This gene encodes an aquaporin which functions as a molecular water channel protein. It is a homotetramer with 6 bilayer spanning domains and N-glycosylation sites. The protein physically resembles channel proteins and is abundant in erythrocytes and renal tubes. The gene encoding this aquaporin is a possible candidate for disorders involving imbalance in ocular fluid movement.

See also

• Aquaporin
• Colton antigen system

External links

• Aquaporin 1 at the US National Library of Medicine Medical Subject Headings (MeSH)
• Gallery of Aquaporin Simulations

This article incorporates text from the United States National Library of Medicine, which is in the public domain.