Programme

Preliminary description:
Mechanosensitive ion channels are membrane proteins that convert physical forces (stretching, shear stress, compression) into electrochemical signals that regulate fundamental cellular processes such as touch sensation, cell volume control, blood pressure regulation, and immune responses. Key families include Piezo and TRP channels whose gain or loss of function are associated with a range of chronic and hereditary diseases, making them important therapeutic targets. The activity of mechanosensitive channels is governed by their physical and biochemical environment. Their dysregulation disturbs ionic homeostasis, particularly Ca2+ signaling, and has been implicated in various disease states, including cardiac arrhythmia and muscular dystrophy. Pharmacological, genetic, and physical tools to control Mechanosensitive ion channel activity are expanding for both basic research and potential clinical applications. This symposium will cover the latest findings on the structure and function of key ion channels involved in force sensing and on how they regulate physiological processes. It will also explore the potential of manipulating mechanosensing for treating human pathologies.