The aquaporins (AQPs) are a family of transmembrane water channel proteins widely distributed and play a major role in transcellular and transepithelial water movement. Moreover, recent evidence indicates that AQPs may be involved in cell migration and angiogenesis. This review article summarizes literature data concerning the involvement of AQPs in tumor growth, angiogenesis and metastatic process and suggest a potential therapeutic approach by antagonizing their biological activity. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.
机构:
Hokkaido Univ, Grad Sch Med, Dept Dermatol, Kita Ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 0608638, JapanHokkaido Univ, Grad Sch Med, Dept Dermatol, Kita Ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 0608638, Japan