Abstract: Aquaporins (AQPs), a group of transmembrane proteins, have 13 types of aquaporins (AQP0-AQP12) expressed in mammalian reproductive system. They can be divided into three subfamilies, including water channel subfamily, water-glycerol channel subfamily and super aqua channel subfamily. AQPs can transport water through the cell membrane, while the AQPs of water-glycerol channel subfamily can also transport neutral molecules such as glycerol. The expressions of at least three AQPs (AQP7, AQP8, AQP9) are abnormal in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which may affect folliculogenesis and follicular atresia, as well as adipose metabolism. AQP1-4 and AQP8-9 are closely related to the growth of follicles. The down-regulations of AQP7 and AQP9 are factors of adipose metabolism disorder in PCOS. This paper reviews the function of AQPs and AQPs expression related with PCOS, which may provide new therapeutic opportunities for PCOS.

Key words: Polycystic ovary syndrome, Aquaporins, Ovarian follicle；Insulin resistance；Therapy