Molecular mechanisms for osmotic regulation in fish

In the cellular membranes, proteins are embedded to handle the exchange with the surrounding, for example water channels (aquaporins).

Aquaporins are essential in the regulation of the osmotic homeostasis in cells and tissues; there are 13 aquaporin variants in humans.

In this multidisciplinary project we will increase the understanding of the molecular mechanisms of the aquaporins from fish, which dominate in barriers like the intestine, but also in sperm.

Knowing the function of those water channels gives increased insight in osmoregulation and sheds light on the molecular basis of health and welfare in fish farming.

We will build on our recent result, structural determination of the first fish aquaporin, which illustrates a novel regulatory mechanism from the extracellular side of the cell. Structural determination is an unbeatable tool to understand the function and regulation of proteins.

Molecular mechanisms for aquaporins will also be studied in the intestine of salmon where its function is central in the timing of the transfer from fresh to salt water during the maturation of the fish.

Furthermore, we will increase the understanding of the aquaporin regulation in fish sperm, which are exposed to a major osmotic shock, to improve reproduction of seabream.

Mainly, our research is consistent with Agenda 2030, focusing on the sustainability goals 2, 3, 12 and 14: we thrive for improved conditions for fish farming and the production of healthy food.