Editorial Comment oe: Expression and Localization of Aquaporin Water Channels ie Human Urothelium In Situ and In Vitro

摘要

Rubenwolf et al provide a very interesting report of the expression of aquaporins and aquaglyceroporins in the human urothelium. Their findings raise questions regarding the long-held concept that the urinary tract is impermeable to water and urea transport. Aquaporins and aquaglyceroporins belong to membrane-channel proteins that facilitate transcellular transport of water and glycerol, respectively. These proteins are expressed in fluid-transporting epithelium, skin, white blood cells, and fat cells. Knock-out mouse models have been used to characterize many of their functions.