Aquaporin-3 channel protein (AQP3)

Aquaporin 3 channel protein (AQP3) is an integral membrane transporter belonging to the major intrinsic protein family. It forms homotetrameric channels in the plasma membrane where each monomer independently facilitates the rapid movement of water and small solutes such as glycerol across cell membranes. Unlike some other aquaporins that are strictly selective for water ("classic AQPs"), AQP3 is classified as an "aquaglyceroporin" because it also transports glycerol and other small molecules including ammonia and urea. In humans it is found predominantly on the basolateral membrane of principal collecting duct cells in the kidney but also widely expressed in skin, respiratory tract tissues, and various tumors. Its physiological roles include maintaining cellular hydration status and contributing to skin barrier function; pathologically it has been implicated both as a marker for certain dermatological conditions (e.g., psoriasis/eczema) and as a potential therapeutic target due to its overexpression in multiple cancer types[2][4][5].

Other names

Aquaporin-3AQP-3Gill blood group antigen proteinWater channel protein AQP-3

Drugs targeting this molecule may modulate water/glycerol permeability or alter its expression to affect cellular hydration or metabolism. For example, HDAC inhibitors like SAHA upregulate its expression.