The aquaporins (AQPs) are a group of highly selective water channel protein family. The content of AQP4 in the astrocytes of the brain is the highest. It is the most vital protein in central nerve system. It participates in a series of pathologic processes of cerebrovascular disorders, brain contusion, tumor, and inflammation caused cerebral edema.However, the mechanism of AQP4 in the process of cerebral edema formation remains controversial. Selective modulation of the expression of AQP4 and intervention in part of its role may provide novel ideas and means for the treatment of edema after cerebral ischemia in clinical practice.