Aquaporins Current Topics in Membranes

Aquaporin water channels mediate and control the transport of water and small solutes across cellular membranes. The aquaporins belong to an ancient protein family and have been found in all organisms, ranging from bacteria to humans. In this volume, leading researchers discuss recent advances in the analysis of structure, genetics, and physiology of aquaporins. We are now beginning to understand the mechanisms that determine the unique transport specificity of aquaporins. Present knowledge of the role of aquaporins suggests that they will be important targets for drugs treating water imbalances in humans as well as for the genetic engineering of crops for improved performance under limited water availability. Key Features * Comprehensive treatment of a topical research field * Authored by world leaders in the field * Covers structural biology and physiology * Covers different experimental and biological systems * Chapters on plant and microbial systems * Extensive treatment of mammalian physiology and pathophysiology * Structural analysis excellently illustratedHohmann, Stefan is the author of 'Aquaporins Current Topics in Membranes' with ISBN 9780123520951 and ISBN 0123520959.