Figure 5.

Interaction between Piezo ion channels. Top: Schematic showing two Piezo channels (blue) in proximity. When channels approach one another, the high degree of curvature resulting from their extended footprints will result in an energetic penalty. Middle: The overall energy of the system can be reduced by repulsion of nearby channels, resulting in a local exclusion zone. Bottom: Alternatively, the overall energy of the system can be minimized by flattening of the Piezo channel blades, reducing the high local curvature induced by their footprints.