Aquaporin expression
nounPronunciation: /ˌækwəˈpɔːrɪn ɪkˈsprɛʃən/
The upregulation or downregulation of aquaporin water channel proteins in response to abiotic stress, modulating cellular water uptake and intracellular transport rates. Changes in aquaporin expression directly influence plant water availability and stress tolerance through altered hydraulic conductivity.
Plain English
The activation or suppression of water channel proteins that control how much water moves into plant cells.
Etymology & History
Usage
"Aquaporin expression patterns revealed distinct tissue-specific responses to osmotic stress in drought-tolerant cultivars."
Style guide notes: Specify aquaporin subfamily (PIP, TIP, NIP) and tissue location when reporting expression data.
Also known as
Contrasted with
Related Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
How does aquaporin expression affect drought tolerance?
Increased aquaporin expression maintains water uptake efficiency, while decreased expression conserves water during severe stress.
Which tissues show greatest aquaporin regulation?
Root tissues and leaf mesophyll cells show dynamic aquaporin expression changes in response to water availability.
Why Test Candidates on This?
Aquaporin expression is critical for understanding hydraulic mechanisms of stress tolerance and whole-plant water relations.
Required skill level: Senior