How cells protect themselves against mechanical stress

(Max Delbr ü ck Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association) The Piezo1 and Piezo2 ion channels are known to open up response to the slightest mechanical stimulus. MDC researchers have now discovered that the channels are also sensitive to changes in membrane voltage. The voltage sensitivity appears to be an ancient property of these channels that protects cells from mechanical stress.
Source: EurekAlert! - Biology - Category: Biology Source Type: news