Aquaporin-mediated water transport
noun phrasePronunciation: /ˌækwəˈpɔːrɪn ˈmiːdieɪtəd ˈwɔːtər ˈtrænspɔːrt/
The facilitated movement of water molecules across cell membranes through aquaporin (water channel) proteins, which is critical for maintaining turgor pressure and cellular water balance during drought stress. Aquaporin function is regulated by phosphorylation and expression level changes under water deficit conditions.
Plain English
Water movement through special channel proteins in cell membranes that help plants manage water during dry periods.
Etymology & History
Usage
"Aquaporin-mediated water transport becomes critical during progressive drought stress, with transcript abundance and phosphorylation state influencing cellular water availability."
Style guide notes: Distinguish between aquaporin expression changes and transport rate changes when describing drought responses.
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Contrasted with
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are aquaporins and how do they function?
Aquaporins are membrane proteins forming water channels that allow rapid bidirectional water movement without ion passage.
How does drought affect aquaporin activity?
Drought stress reduces aquaporin expression and phosphorylation, decreasing water conductivity to conserve cellular water.
Why Test Candidates on This?
Important for advanced examinations covering water stress physiology and molecular mechanisms of drought adaptation.
Required skill level: Senior