Aquaporin-7 (AQP7)

Aquaporin-7 is a membrane transporter of the aquaporin family that primarily facilitates glycerol transport across the plasma membrane of adipocytes and other tissues such as testis, kidney, and muscle[1][2]. It enables the rapid, selective movement of glycerol, water, and urea, and is crucial for lipid and energy metabolism. The AQP7 channel's function is tightly regulated—hormonally controlled trafficking modulates its localization between lipid droplets and the plasma membrane in adipocytes, supporting the release of glycerol during lipolysis and influencing fat storage/mobilization dynamics[1]. AQP7 dysfunction or altered expression is linked to several metabolic diseases, notably obesity and diabetes, and is being investigated as a potential therapeutic target. Its unique structure includes areas devoted to both water and glycerol selectivity, distinguishing it from "orthodox" aquaporins, which transport exclusively water[1][2][3].

Other names

Aquaporin-7AQP7AQP-7AQPapAquaglyceroporin-7Aquaporin adiposeAquaporin-7-likeAQP7LGLYCQTL

Inhibitors or modulators would act by altering glycerol and/or water permeability across adipocyte and other cell membranes, potentially affecting adipose tissue metabolism and systemic lipid/glucose homeostasis[1].