Mechanosensitive response of voltage-gated ion channels

Neurons communicate via a traveling wave of electrical excitation that propagates down an axon at speeds in the range of 10–100 m/s. This electrical wave is triggered and regulated by opening and closing of voltage-gated ion channels. These channels have been traditionally believed to be sensitive to the local electrochemical environment. A growing number of experiments now conclusively show that lipid-associated mechanical stimuli can control the channel response. We develop a quantitative model to elucidate the mechanosensitivity exhibited by these channels. With the help of a single model, we are able able to consolidate the findings of the various experimental studies that have investigated the effect of different mechanical stimuli