Putative Mechanoproteins in Vertebrate Cutaneous Mechanoreceptors-Are they at the Basis of the Mechanotransduction?

Abstract

The mammalian skin contains sensory structures (mechanoreceptors) that are responsible for different modalities of mechanosensitivity like touch, vibration and pressure sensation. These specialized sensory organs are anatomically and functionally connected to mechanosensory neurons which electrophysiologically correspond with Aβ fibers. The process of mechanosensitivity requires the conversion of a mechanical stimulus into an electrical signal (mechanotransduction) through the activation of ion channels that gate in response to mechanical stimuli originating actions potential potentials. The ion channels that are putatively mechanotransducer belong primarily to the families of acid-sensing ion channels, transient receptor potential channels, and Piezo2. This short review compiles the current knowledge on the occurrence of putative mechanoproteins mechanoreceptors, and therefore the involvement of these proteins on the biology of touch.