Piezo-type mechanosensitive ion channel component 1: a mechano-bioenergetic transducer in the tumour microenvironment.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: As a pivotal mechanosensitive ion channel, Piezo-type mechanosensitive ion channel component 1 (Piezo1) converts mechanical stimuli into biochemical signals that regulate key oncogenic processes, including tumour cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Emerging evidence demonstrates that Piezo1 is widely expressed across various cellular compartments of the tumour microenvironment (TME), and its elevated expression strongly correlates with adverse clinical outcomes. A comprehensive understanding of the complex interactions between Piezo1 activation and cytokine networks in different TME cell populations is therefore essential for developing innovative and effective anti-tumour therapeutic strategies. In this review, we aimed to highlight the molecular mechanisms of Piezo1, systematically elucidating how the mechanical stimulation-Piezo1 signalling pathway within the TME contributes to tumour immune escape and malignant progression. Furthermore, we summarized current research advances in Piezo1-targeting drugs and clinical trials, and discuss strategies to improve tissue specificity while minimizing off-target effects. DISCUSSION: A comprehensive literature review was conducted, focusing on the specific mechanisms through which Piezo1 regulates endothelial cells, immune cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts and the extracellular matrix within the TME. Activation of Piezo1 in endothelial and immune cells promotes tumour angiogenesis and immune evasion. CONCLUSION: Piezo1 plays a critical role in tumour progression and represents a promising therapeutic target for cancer treatment.