OBJECTIVETo determine the effect of AQP1 gene on facial nerve edema following injury through investigation of the relationship between the expression of AQP1 gene and Schwann cells swelling.

METHODSThe AQP1 expression in Schwann cells of mouse facial nerve tissues was detected by immunofluorescent staining. The transgenic protocol by lentivirus transduction was used to specifically upregulate AQP1 expression in Schwann cells. Lenti-AQP1 and CTRL (empty vector) transduced cells were observed during gene overexpression every 24 h for 6 days by using phase contrast microscopy. Cell volume of CTRL and Lenti-AQP1 treated cells was measured daily from the day of treatment, through day 6.

RESULTSSchwann cell primary cultures maintained a high level of AQP1 water channels, representing an ideal cell model to study the role of AQP1 in the facial nerve. The expression of AQP1 mRNA and protein in Schwann cells infected with the Lenti-AQP1 was increased significantly compared with CTRL lentivirus (P < 0.05). Lenti-AQP1 caused cell swelling in cultured Schwann cells, as validated by cell volume determinations (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONSAQP1 is an important factor responsible for the fast water transport of cultured Schwann cells. It plays an important role in facial nerve edema.