Neuroscience

Receptor

Biology

Biophysics

Stretch-activated ion channel

Mechanotransduction

Ion channel

PIEZO1

Mechanosensitive channels

Genetics

Annual Review of Neuroscience

Activation of mechanosensitive ion channels underlies a variety of fundamental physiological processes that require sensation of mechanical force. Different mechanosensitive channels adapt distinctive structures and mechanotransduction mechanisms to fit their biological roles. How mechanosensitive channels work, especially in animals, has been extensively studied in the past decade. Here we review key findings in the functional and structural characterizations of these channels and highlight the structural features relevant to the mechanotransduction mechanism of each specific channel.

Mechanosensitive Ion Channels: Structural Features Relevant to Mechanotransduction Mechanisms