Activating PIEZO1 for lymphatic dysfunction

Activating or overexpressing the mechanosensitive ion channel PIEZO1 could help treat conditions involving buildup of cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) — including hydrocephaly, ventriculomegaly, and Down syndrome — by signaling increased pressure in the lymphatic vessel walls, promoting vessel dilation and decreasing pumping activity, which improves lymphatic absorption and transport.

In mice, overexpression of PIEZO1 in lymphatic vessels, or intraperitoneal administration of a PIEZO1 activator tool compound, increased drainage of CSF to the lymph nodes compared with normal PIEZO1 expression or vehicle, respectively. ...