Pore-forming subunit of a mechanosensitive non-specific cation channel. Generates currents characterized by a linear current-voltage relationship that are sensitive to ruthenium red and gadolinium. Plays a key role in epithelial cell adhesion by maintaining integrin activation through R-Ras recruitment to the ER, most probably in its activated state, and subsequent stimulation of calpain signaling. In the kidney, may contribute to the detection of intraluminal pressure changes and to urine flow sensing. Acts as shear-stress sensor that promotes endothelial cell organization and alignment in the direction of blood flow through calpain activation. Plays a key role in blood vessel formation and vascular structure in both development and adult physiology.

1 Lee W et al. Synergy between Piezo1 and Piezo2 channels confers high-strain mechanosensitivity to articular cartilage. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 111:E5114-22 (2014).
2 Jia S et al. FAM3A promotes vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration and exacerbates neointima formation in rat artery after balloon injury. J Mol Cell Cardiol 74:173-82 (2014).