Expression of AQP3 protein in hAECs is regulated by Camp-PKA-CREB signalling pathway

Abstract

Previous studies by others and our group have demonstrated the expression of AQP3 protein in human chorioamniotic membranes. Here, we investigated whether cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) up-regulation of aquaporin 3 (AQP3) protein expression in human amniotic epithelial cells (hAECs) is mediated by protein kinase A (PKA) dependent or independent pathway. Cells were treated with various concentrations of Forskolin, SP-cAMP, H-89 at various time intervals or optimal concentration of Forskolin in combination with H-89 in the blocking experiments. Forskolin significantly increased cAMP levels and the expression of PKA, p-CREB and AQP3. SP-cAMP had similar effects. H-89 inhibited PKA, p-CREB and AQP3 protein expression, and attenuated the stimulatory effect of Forskolin. These results show that the AQP3 protein expression in hAECs was regulated by cAMP-PKA-CREB signal pathway. A relatively short biological half life of AQP3 renders its rapid responsiveness to regulation.