MIP cDNA Clone – Major Intrinsic Protein of Lens Fiber (Human)

Major intrinsic protein is a member of the water-transporting aquaporins as well as the original member of the MIP family of channel proteins. The function of the fiber cell membrane protein encoded by this gene is undetermined, yet this protein is speculated to play a role in intracellular communication. The MIP protein is expressed in the ocular lens and is required for correct lens function. This gene has been mapped among aquaporins AQP2, AQP5, and AQP6, in a potential gene cluster at 12q13. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008]

AQP0: major intrinsic protein of lens fiber. A member of the water-transporting aquaporins as well as the original member of the MIP family of channel proteins. May be responsible for regulating the osmolarity of the lens. Defects in MIP are a cause of autosomal recessive congenital cataract.

Protein type: Transporter, aquaporin family; Membrane protein, multi-pass; Channel, misc.; Membrane protein, integral

Chromosomal Location of Human Ortholog: 12q13

Cellular Component: apical plasma membrane; endoplasmic reticulum; integral to plasma membrane; plasma membrane

Molecular Function: calmodulin binding; gap junction channel activity; glycerol channel activity; transporter activity; water channel activity

Biological Process: cellular water homeostasis; positive regulation of cell adhesion; protein homotetramerization; water transport

Disease: Cataract 15, Multiple Types