Paper | June 20, 2026

Oligodendrocyte Piezo2 in multiple sclerosis

Project P07 published a study identifying the mechanosensitive ion channel Piezo2 as an important regulator of myelin integrity in the optic nerve. The researchers found that Piezo2 supports the function of mature oligodendrocytes and helps maintain myelin compaction, particularly in small-caliber nerve fibers that are especially vulnerable in multiple sclerosis (MS). Reduced PIEZO2 expression in MS patient tissue further highlights its potential role in protecting white matter and preserving neuronal function during disease progression.

Publications

Oligodendrocyte Piezo2 is a regulator of age-dependent myelin integrity and dysregulated in multiple sclerosis. Dyckow-Schubart J., Rabitsch A.M., Geywitz C. et al. Commun Biol. 9, 849 (2026).