Aquaporins can contribute to the toxicity of certain substances. For example, in the central nervous system, aquaporins are involved in the development of brain edema following toxic exposures. Some aquaporins, like AQP4, are expressed in the blood-brain barrier and astrocytes, and their dysfunction can exacerbate neural damage during exposure to neurotoxic agents. Additionally, alterations in aquaporin expression or function can affect the body's ability to handle oxidative stress, influencing the toxicity of reactive oxygen species and related compounds.
