The power of science diplomacy, a lesson from the Nobel laureate Peter Agre

The Prize marked a life of research in the field of membrane proteins, leading to the seminal experiments proving molecular identity (1987-91) [3–5] and function (1992) [6] of water channels. The first water channel was initially CHIP28 (CHannel-like Integral membrane Protein 28 kDa) and afterwards rechristened aquaporin-1 (AQP1) to its molecular conductance [7]. line with his flair of perspicacious investigator, the discovery AQP channels is a typical example of serendipity. In Peter Agre, when studying the biochemical characteristics the erythrocyte Rh blood group antigen, came across the ‘elusive’ water channel protein in 1987 although investigating else [4]. after the functional characterization of the first animal channel (AQP1), other members of the AQP family were and localized in all body districts, by homology . Mammals express thirteen distinct homologues (AQP0-12) exerting pleiotropic roles throughout the body [2]. were also soon found in the plant [8] and microbial [9], testifying their pivotal relevance in living .