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Aquaporins: Bridging Normal Brain Development and Neurodevelopmental Disorder Mechanisms Publisher Pubmed



Azizi F1 ; Chan WK2 ; Ardalan M2, 3
Authors
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Authors Affiliations
  1. 1. School of Advanced Medical Technologies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
  2. 2. Department of Physiology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
  3. 3. Department of Clinical Medicine, Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark

Source: Developmental Neuroscience Published:2025


Abstract

Background: Homeostasis of water content in the brain during fetal development is of crucial physiological importance. Aquaporins (AQPs) play a critical role in maintaining brain water balance, supporting normal brain development, and are increasingly recognized for their relevance in understanding neurodevelopmental disorders. Summary: This review provides a comprehensive overview of AQPs and their essential roles in the central nervous system (CNS), specifically AQP4, AQP11, and AQP9, which play a crucial role in water transport in the brain, maintaining water homeostasis and facilitating water movement across cell membranes. The review also highlights how disruptions in AQP expression and function may contribute to the pathology of neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and Fragile X syndrome. Key Messages: AQPs are vital for brain water regulation and normal neural development. Altered expression or function of AQPs can impact blood-brain barrier integrity, neuroinflammation, and synaptic activity. AQP dysfunctions are linked to neurodevelopmental disorders and may represent promising therapeutic targets. © 2025 The Author(s).
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