The authors used human embryonic stem cells or induced pluripotent stem cells to derive sensory neurons that have biochemical and electrophysiological properties similar to touch receptors, including the ability to transduce mechanical stimuli into electrical activity. Using CRISPR/Cas9 gene targeting technology, they also show that the mechanosensitivity of these cells relies entirely on the expression of PIEZO2.
- Katrin Schrenk-Siemens
- Hagen Wende
- Jan Siemens
