Labeling PIEZO2 activity in the peripheral nervous system

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Physiology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Sensory neurons are vital for sensing mechanical forces, regulating physiological functions.
• PIEZO2 is a key mechanosensory ion channel involved in touch, proprioception, and bladder sensation.
• Understanding PIEZO2 neuron localization is crucial for deciphering mechanosensory physiology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of PIEZO2 in sensory neuron labeling using the dye FM 1-43 in vivo.
• To identify novel PIEZO2-expressing sensory neurons and their physiological functions.

Main Methods:

• In vivo labeling of mouse sensory neurons with the fluorescent styryl dye FM 1-43.
• Assessment of FM 1-43 labeling dependency on PIEZO2 activity in peripheral nerve endings.
• Identification of novel PIEZO2-expressing neurons in the urethra involved in urination.

Main Results:

• The majority of FM 1-43 labeling in mouse somatosensory neurons in vivo is dependent on PIEZO2 activity.
• FM 1-43 successfully identified novel PIEZO2-expressing urethral neurons activated during urination.
• FM 1-43 serves as a functional probe for PIEZO2-mediated mechanosensitivity in vivo.

Conclusions:

• FM 1-43 is a valuable tool for probing PIEZO2-dependent mechanosensitivity in vivo.
• This study facilitates the characterization of known and novel mechanosensory pathways in various organ systems.
• The findings open new avenues for understanding sensory neuron function and mechanotransduction.