AQP2 : aquaporin 2
Description
The AQP2 (aquaporin 2) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 12.
The AQP2 gene provides instructions for making the aquaporin 2 protein, which forms a channel that carries water molecules across cell membranes. Located in the kidneys' collecting ducts, this protein plays a crucial role in maintaining water balance. The placement of these channels is controlled by the hormone arginine vasopressin (AVP), which is released when fluid intake is low or when fluid is lost (e.g., through sweating). AVP triggers the insertion of aquaporin 2 water channels into the collecting duct cell membrane, allowing water reabsorption into the bloodstream and concentrated urine. When fluid intake is adequate, AVP levels decrease, channels are removed from the membrane, less water is reabsorbed, and urine becomes more dilute.
AQP2 forms a channel that allows water to move across the membranes of renal collecting duct cells, increasing their permeability to water. This movement follows the osmotic gradient, which helps maintain water balance in the kidneys. This role is essential for proper renal water homeostasis.
AQP2 is also known as AQP-CD, NDI2, WCH-CD.
