Basic Technical

Aquaporin regulation

noun phrase

Pronunciation: /ˌækwəˈpɔːrɪn ˈrɛɡjʊleɪʃən/

The dynamic modulation of water channel protein activity and abundance in response to abiotic stress, controlling water transport rates across cell membranes and tissues. Aquaporins are phosphorylated, internalized, or degraded to adjust water permeability based on cellular water status and stress conditions.

Plain English

Control of water channel proteins in plant cells to manage water movement during stress conditions.

Etymology & History

Origin languageLatin, English

Rootaqua (water) + pore (from porus, 'passage') + regulation (from regula, 'rule')

First recorded use2000s

Usage frequencyUncommon

Usage

"Aquaporin regulation during drought stress reduces water loss from leaves while maintaining root water uptake."

Style guide notes: Specify aquaporin type (PIP, TIP, NIP) and cellular location when discussing regulation mechanisms.

Also known as

water channel modulation aquaporin phosphorylation

Contrasted with

constitutive water permeability static channel function

Related Terms

water_transport_mechanisms membrane_protein_trafficking osmotic_adjustment

Frequently Asked Questions

How do plants regulate aquaporin activity?

Phosphorylation, endocytosis, and protein degradation modulate aquaporin abundance and activity levels.

Why is aquaporin regulation important during drought?

Downregulating aquaporins in leaves reduces transpirational water loss while maintaining hydraulic function.

Why Test Candidates on This?

Relevant for advanced research on molecular mechanisms of drought tolerance and water stress physiology.

Required skill level: Expert

Aquaporin expression modulation ← Back to glossary Aquaporin regulation under stress