Labeling PIEZO2 activity in the peripheral nervous system.

ABSTRACT: Sensory neurons detect mechanical forces from both the environment and internal organs to regulate physiology. PIEZO2 is a mechanosensory ion channel critical for touch, proprioception, and bladder stretch sensation, yet its broad expression in sensory neurons suggests it has undiscovered physiological roles. To fully understand mechanosensory physiology, we must know where and when PIEZO2-expressing neurons detect force. The fluorescent styryl dye FM 1-43 was previously shown to label sensory neurons. Surprisingly, we find that the vast majority of FM 1-43 somatosensory neuron labeling in mice in vivo is dependent on PIEZO2 activity within the peripheral nerve endings. We illustrate the potential of FM 1-43 by using it to identify novel PIEZO2-expressing urethral neurons that are engaged

SUBMITTER: Villarino NW 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10527906 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature