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| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Title: | Evidence for a protein tether involved in somatic touch |
| Creators Name: | Hu, J., Chiang, L.Y., Koch, M. and Lewin, G.R. |
| Abstract: | The gating of ion channels by mechanical force underlies the sense of touch and pain. The mode of gating of mechanosensitive ion channels in vertebrate touch receptors is unknown. Here we show that the presence of a protein link is necessary for the gating of mechanosensitive currents in all low-threshold mechanoreceptors and some nociceptors of the dorsal root ganglia (DRG). Using TEM, we demonstrate that a protein filament with of length approximately 100 nm is synthesized by sensory neurons and may link mechanosensitive ion channels in sensory neurons to the extracellular matrix. Brief treatment of sensory neurons with non-specific and site-specific endopeptidases destroys the protein tether and abolishes mechanosensitive currents in sensory neurons without affecting electrical excitability. Protease-sensitive tethers are also required for touch-receptor function in vivo. Thus, unlike the majority of nociceptors, cutaneous mechanoreceptors require a distinct protein tether to transduce mechanical stimuli. |
| Keywords: | Extracellular Matrix, Ion Channels, Laminin, Mechanotransduction, Proteases, Animals, Mice |
| Source: | EMBO Journal |
| ISSN: | 0261-4189 |
| Publisher: | Nature Publishing Group |
| Volume: | 29 |
| Number: | 4 |
| Page Range: | 855-867 |
| Date: | 17 February 2010 |
| Official Publication: | https://doi.org/10.1038/emboj.2009.398 |
| PubMed: | View item in PubMed |
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