Piezo mechanosensory channels regulate centrosome integrity and mitotic entry

Area of Science:

• Cell Biology
• Mechanobiology
• Calcium Signaling

Background:

• Piezo1 and Piezo2 are known mechanosensory ion channels on the cell surface.
• They respond to mechanical stimuli by allowing calcium ion (Ca²⁺) influx.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the intracellular localization and function of Piezo1 and Piezo2.
• To determine the role of Piezo channels in centrosome integrity and cell division.

Main Methods:

• Utilized loss-of-function studies for Piezo1 and Piezo2.
• Employed Yoda1 (a Piezo1 activator) and observed its effects.
• Used a Ca²⁺-sensitive reporter (GCaMP) to monitor intracellular Ca²⁺ flux.
• Investigated the role of Polo-like-kinase 1 (PLK1) in Piezo-mediated effects.

Main Results:

• Piezo1 and Piezo2 were found to localize to centrosomes.
• Piezo dysfunction or activation led to supernumerary centrosomes, premature centriole disengagement, and multi-polar spindles.
• Perturbations in Piezo channels altered Ca²⁺ flux at centrosomes.
• Inhibition of PLK1 prevented Yoda1-induced centriole disengagement.

Conclusions:

• Piezo1 and Piezo2 play a critical role in maintaining centrosome integrity.
• Centrosomal mechanotransduction by Piezo channels may regulate pericentrosomal Ca²⁺ levels.
• This regulation is likely involved in sensing microtubule-generated forces essential for cell division.