Can Aquaporins be Targeted for Therapeutic Interventions?
Given their involvement in various physiological and pathological processes, aquaporins are considered promising targets for therapeutic interventions. Modulating aquaporin activity could potentially mitigate the effects of toxic exposures. For example, inhibitors or blockers of specific aquaporins could be used to reduce brain edema in acute intoxications. Conversely, enhancing aquaporin function might improve renal clearance of toxicants, providing a protective effect against nephrotoxic agents. The challenge lies in developing specific agents that can selectively target aquaporins without disrupting normal physiological functions.