Description:
- For the treatment of:
- Lymphatic valve disorders
- Ocular hypertension
- Brain injury
- Lymphedema
Abstract
USC researchers have recently elucidated the function of Piezo1 in embryonic and postnatal lymphatic growth and valve development, proposing that it functions as a mechanotransduction sensor that senses cell stretch caused by oscillatory shear stress (OSS). Through these findings, it was shown to be required for mesenteric and dermal lymphatic valve formation. Researchers further identified that Piezo1 agonist, Yoda1, works to upregulate the appropriate channels even in the absence of OSS. Now that the role of Piezo1 and its agonist have been confirmed, this provides the first platform for targeted treatment and prevention of lymphatic valve disorders.
Benefit
- Provides the first elucidation of the role of Piezo1
- Provides an alternative activation mechanism through its agonist
Market Application
In order to regulate tissue fluid homeostasis and support the immune system, vessels of the lymphatic system must maintain unidirectional flow of lymph fluid from the tissues directly to the heart. Any disfunction or malformation in the lymphatic valves that regulate this fluid flow significantly impair the lymphatic system and can lead to swelling, infection, blockage, and even cancer. Understanding of the underlying lymphatic development pathways is therefore crucial for treatment and prevention of lymphatic valve disorders. Largely these processes are controlled by mechanotransduction pathways. In particular, the Piezo1 gene has been identified as a critical molecular component of vascular development and function that acts as a cell stretch sensor. Despite these strong clinical associations, the specific role Piezo1 plays in mechanotransduction pathways, including the mechanism of its sensing capabilities, is still largely unknown.
Publications
Manuscript in preparation
Other
- In vivo studies have been performed, establishing the role of Piezo1 and identifying its agonist, Yoda1