Fundamental roles of aquaporin-1 channels in cell migration and morphology

本研究旨在探讨细胞迁移机制及水通道蛋白在控制细胞运动和形态中的作用。细胞移动和保持适当形状的能力对于多细胞生物体的发育、修复和生存至关重要。该项目将测试哺乳动物水通道蛋白-1通道在正常细胞和癌细胞中的快速迁移，修复肾脏和大脑中的屏障层，以及允许红细胞保持最佳运输所需的经典圆盘形状方面的作用。结果将使用分子、光学和药理学工具定义提供这些功能的水通道蛋白-1的特征。结果将定义水通道蛋白通道特性，使最佳的细胞功能。

This project aims to investigate cell migration mechanisms and the roles of aquaporin channels in controlling cell motility and morphology. The ability of cells to move and maintain proper shape is important for development, repair and survival in multicellular organisms. This project will test the role of mammalian aquaporin-1 channels in enabling rapid migration in normal and cancer cells, in repairing barrier layers in kidney and brain, and in allowing red blood cells to maintain the classic disk-shape needed for optimal transport. Outcomes will define features of aquaporin-1 that provide these functions, using molecular, optical and pharmacological tools. Results will define aquaporin channel properties that enable optimal cellular function.