What are 'aquaporins' ? How does presence of aquaporins affect osmosis ?

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Definition of Aquaporins:**
Aquaporins are integral membrane proteins that form channels or pores in the cell membrane. These proteins are specifically designed to facilitate the transport of water molecules across the membrane.

2. **Function of Aquaporins:**
The primary function of aquaporins is to allow water to flow into and out of the cell more rapidly than through simple diffusion. This is crucial for maintaining the cell's water balance and overall homeostasis.

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