Piezo1 Ion Channel Gating Mechanism

Proposed model of mechanical activation of a Piezo1 ion channel. Based on “Ge et al. 2015. Architecture of the mammalian mechanosensitive Piezo1 channel. Nature, 527: 64-69”. Molecular structure derived from PDB (ID: 3JAC), with peripheral blades added by the artist.

[@luxstar5622]

what is occuring on the extracellular domains before the ion channel opens?

[@i-gi-g-o-r9298]

I may be wrong, but your model shows PIEZO channel work through conformational changes to translocate ions. In turn, channels create the "way" for ion passage which is much quicker than conformational changes. The article you have used, shows that this is the channel. Moreover, central axis of ion passage hasn`t been reflected in your video.

[@marymccoy7035]

Piezo1 is activated by stretch; it opens due to tension on the plasma membrane. At least in muscle cells.