AQP7

AQP7 encodes Aquaporin-7, a member of the aquaglyceroporin subfamily. Also known by aliases like glycerol channel AQP7, it facilitates water and glycerol transport across cell membranes, predominantly in adipose tissue, skeletal muscle, and renal tubules. Its glycerol permeability is critical for lipid metabolism: it mediates glycerol efflux from adipocytes to the circulation, supporting hepatic gluconeogenesis.
AQP7 expression is regulated by insulin signaling—insulin downregulates its levels in adipocytes, impairing glycerol release and promoting triglyceride accumulation. Dysregulation links to obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes. Current research explores AQP7 modulators as metabolic disorder therapies, though no candidates have advanced to late-stage clinical trials.