PIEZO1-Related Physiological and Pathological Processes in CNS: Focus on the Gliomas

SIMPLE SUMMARY: We summarized previous studies of PIEZO1 in neurons and glial cells of the central nervous system, and briefly reviewed its mechanotransduction mechanisms and its role in physiological and pathological processes. We further elaborated the effects of PIEZO1 in gliomas and its underlying mechanisms as well as its clinical application. Based on the existing advanced studies, we propose the promising potential of PIEZO1 in the treatment of neurological diseases, especially gliomas. ABSTRACT: PIEZO1 is ubiquitously expressed in cells in different kinds of tissues throughout the body, which can sense physical or mechanical stimuli and translate them into intracellular electrochemical signals to regulate organism functions. In particular, PIEZO1 appears in complex interactive regulatory networks as a central node, governing normal and pathological functions in the body. However, the effect and mechanism of the activation or expression of PIEZO1 in diseases of the central nervous system (CNS) remain unclear. On one hand, in CNS diseases, pathophysiological processes in neurons and glial are often accompanied by variations in the mechanical properties of the cellular and extracellular matrix stiffness. The expression of PIEZO1 can therefore be upregulated, in responding to mechanical stimulation, to drive the biological process in cells, which in turns indirectly affects the cellular microenvironment, resulting in alterations of the cellular status. On the other hand, it may have contradictory effects with the change of active patterns and/or subcellular location. This review highlights the biological processes involved with PIEZO1 in CNS cells, with special emphasis on its multiple roles in glioma-associated phenotypes. In conclusion, PIEZO1 can be used as an indicator to assess the malignancy and prognosis of patients with gliomas, as well as a therapeutic target for clinical application following fully exploring the potential mechanism of PIEZO1 in CNS diseases.