What is the Context of Aquaporin-4 (AQP4)?

AQP4 is highly expressed in the end-feet of astrocytes that surround blood vessels in the brain, forming a crucial part of the blood-brain barrier. It is also present in other tissues like the kidney and skeletal muscle, but its concentration and role in the central nervous system are particularly significant for neurological function and homeostasis.

What is the Significance of Aquaporin-4 (AQP4)?

Dysfunction or mislocalization of AQP4 is strongly linked to several neurological disorders, most notably neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), where autoantibodies target AQP4. It is also implicated in brain edema following stroke or injury, epilepsy, and hydrocephalus, making it a key factor in understanding and potentially treating these conditions.

What is the Mechanism of Aquaporin-4 (AQP4)?

AQP4 forms tetrameric structures that create pores allowing rapid and selective passage of water molecules, driven by osmotic gradients. This process is essential for regulating cell volume, cerebrospinal fluid circulation, and waste removal through the glymphatic system.

What is the Application of Aquaporin-4 (AQP4)?

Understanding AQP4's role is vital for developing targeted therapies for neurological conditions involving water imbalance. Research into AQP4 modulators, such as inhibitors or stimulators, is ongoing for treating brain edema and autoimmune diseases like NMOSD.

What is the Metric of Aquaporin-4 (AQP4)?

AQP4 expression levels can be assessed in tissue samples via immunohistochemistry or Western blotting. In clinical contexts, AQP4 antibodies are measured in serum using cell-based assays or ELISA, serving as a diagnostic marker for NMOSD and providing prognostic information.

What is the Risk of Aquaporin-4 (AQP4)?

While essential for normal function, AQP4 dysfunction can lead to pathological water accumulation, such as cytotoxic edema, or impaired waste clearance. Autoimmune attacks against AQP4, as seen in NMOSD, can cause severe neurological damage and inflammation.

Aquaporin-4 (AQP4) ∞ Area

Aquaporin-4 (AQP4)

Meaning

Aquaporin-4 (AQP4) is a protein that forms water-selective channels in cell membranes, primarily found in astrocytes within the central nervous system. It plays a critical role in regulating water movement and maintaining fluid balance in the brain and spinal cord.

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HRTioSeptember 22, 2025

Aquaporin-4 (AQP4)

Meaning

Context

Significance

Mechanism

Application

Metric

Risk

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