Novel Advances in Aquaporin Water Channels in the Reproduction of Animals: Morpho-Functional Aspects

Dear Colleagues,

Aquaporins (AQPs) are a family of transmembrane channel proteins widely distributed in humans and animals where they facilitate the transport of water and small solutes inside and outside the cells. The presence of several AQPs reported in different districts of male and female reproductive tract of animals suggests their important role in water homeostasis in order to ensure normal male and female fertility. It is well-known that AQPs can influence different reproductive processes, e.g., spermatogenesis, oocyte transport, estrous cycle and hormonal secretion, completion of successful fertilization, embryo development, pregnancy and birth. Moreover, the study of the AQPs involvement in the mechanisms regulating reproductive functions by sexual hormones or by other factors (nutritional, toxicants, metabolic and environmental conditions) interfering with normal reproductive function, is extremely interesting for functional approaches that should be applied to laboratory, small animals and livestock species.

These findings are confirmed in reproductive disorders and aging where alterations in the expression, function or regulation of AQPs are associated with different cellular and tissue dysfunctions. This Special Issue welcomes original research and review papers addressing innovative morpho-functional aspects of AQPs, including expression, function and regulation in biology and medicine as well as their translational value in pharmacology, in biotechnological and clinical approaches. In detail, the Issue focuses the attention on the functional role of AQPs on the health and fertility preservation of animals including biomedical and livestock species as well as a possible involvement of these proteins in Veterinary Clinician.

We invite you to share your recent findings through this Special Issue.

Prof. Dr. Alessandra Pelagalli
Dr. Giovanna Liguori
Prof. Nicola Mirabella
Dr. Caterina Squillacioti
Guest Editors

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