ABSTRACT
The transport of water and small uncharged molecules across prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell membranes is supported by aquaporins. In spite of their importance, molluscan aquaporins have not been thoroughly explored. This is worth addressing since data concerning water channels in molluscs generally shed new light on aquaporins. Our analysis of these proteins revealed a novel composition of amino acids in the ar/R region, a unique group of aquaporins in phylogenetic relationships, and the impact of environmental conditions on water channels. Additionally, we present new research about changes in the expression level of Helix pomatia aquaporins during entry into the state of aestivation. Transcriptome expression patterns obtained for feet, kidneys, and intestines from active snails housed for 3, 7, 15, and 35 days without food or water confirm the importance of aquaporins in counteracting water stress.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.
ORCID
Ewa Kosicka http://orcid.org/0000-0001-7969-4153
Andrzej Lesicki http://orcid.org/0000-0002-1924-1934
Joanna R. Pieńkowska http://orcid.org/0000-0003-0372-121X