Authors: Manakan B. Srichai, Heloisa Colleta, Leslie Gewin, Linsey Matrisian, Ty W. Abel, Naohiko Koshikawa, Motoharu Seiki, Ambra Pozzi, Raymond C. Harris, Roy Zent
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0017099
Abstract Summary
MT4-MMP, a membrane-anchored enzyme, plays an unexpected role in regulating thirst rather than kidney function. While expressed in developing and adult kidneys, MT4-MMP-deficient mice showed only minor renal abnormalities. Surprisingly, these mice drank less water and produced less urine, suggesting primary hypodipsia. The enzyme’s presence in thirst-regulating brain regions indicates it modulates neural pathways controlling water intake.
Why Brain? ðŸ§
MT4-MMP enzyme regulates thirst and water intake through brain pathways rather than kidney function, revealing a novel neural mechanism controlling body water balance in mice with potential implications for understanding thirst disorders.
The image is AI-generated for illustrative purposes only. Courtesy of Midjourney.
