The chromosomal localization of the gene encoding Aquaporin 2 (previously called WCH-CD), which acts as a water channel in the collecting tubules of the kidney, was determined. Southern blot hybridizations of chromosomal DNA from a panel of 25 different human-rodent hybrid cell lines assigned AQP2 to the q-arm of human chromosome 12. Additionally, in situ hybridization on R-banded metaphase chromosomes localized AQP2 to the q12-->q13 region of this chromosome.