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