Aquaporins (AQPs) are a family of transmembrane channel proteins that can rapidly transport water molecules. The main subtype expressed in the epidermis and dermis is AQP3. Studies have confirmed that AQPs exert certain physiological functions in the skin, such as the maintenance of normal shape, the regulation of body temperature, moisturization and hydration, anti-aging, damage repair and antigen presentation. The abnormal expression of AQPs in skin cells can lead to a variety of skin diseases. This review summarizes the relevance of AQPs in dermatophysiological and pathophysiological processes, highlighting their potential as new drug targets for the treatment of skin diseases.
Keywords: aquaporin; dermatosis; mechanism; physiological function.