Ion Channels in Epithelial Dynamics and Morphogenesis

• Main Authors: Ankit Roy Choudhury, Jörg Großhans, Deqing Kong
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2021-09-01
• Series: Cells
• Subjects: <i>Drosophila</i>; epithelial cells; morphogenesis; mechano-gated ion channels; calcium ion
• Online Access: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4409/10/9/2280

Mechanosensitive ion channels mediate the neuronal sensation of mechanical signals such as sound, touch, and pain. Recent studies point to a function of these channel proteins in cell types and tissues in addition to the nervous system, such as epithelia, where they have been little studied, and their role has remained elusive. Dynamic epithelia are intrinsically exposed to mechanical forces. A response to pull and push is assumed to constitute an essential part of morphogenetic movements of epithelial tissues, for example. Mechano-gated channels may participate in sensing and responding to such forces. In this review, focusing on <i>Drosophila</i>, we highlight recent results that will guide further investigations concerned with the mechanistic role of these ion channels in epithelial cells.