Aquaporin-4
Aquaporin-4
Aquaporin-4 (pronounced: ah-kwuh-por-in-4), also known as AQP4, is a type of protein that is primarily found in the brain and spinal cord. It is part of the larger Aquaporin family of proteins, which are integral membrane proteins that serve as channels in the transfer of water, and in some cases, small solutes across the membrane.
Etymology
The term "Aquaporin" is derived from the Latin words 'aqua' meaning water, and 'porin' meaning pore. The number '4' signifies that it is the fourth member of the Aquaporin family to be discovered.
Function
Aquaporin-4 plays a crucial role in water balance and homeostasis within the central nervous system. It is predominantly located in the astrocytes, a type of glial cell in the brain and spinal cord. AQP4 facilitates the movement of water between the blood-brain barrier and the brain tissue, thereby playing a significant role in maintaining the brain's water balance.
Clinical Significance
Alterations in the function or expression of Aquaporin-4 have been associated with several medical conditions. These include neuromyelitis optica, a rare neurological disorder, and brain edema, a condition characterized by an excess accumulation of fluid in the brain.
Related Terms
- Aquaporin
- Protein
- Brain
- Spinal cord
- Homeostasis
- Central nervous system
- Astrocytes
- Glial cell
- Blood-brain barrier
- Neuromyelitis optica
- Brain edema
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