Force sensing by Piezo1 regulates endothelial secretory granule exocytosis

Endothelial cells (ECs) rapidly alter their phenotype to support haemostasis and inflammation through the exocytosis of specialised storage organelles, known as Weibel-Palade bodies (WPBs). This exocytic response is stimulated by a variety of physiological and pathological triggers which act through well-described transmembrane receptors. However, the influence of mechanical forces and how they shape this fundamental endothelial response remains relatively unexplored. Here we demonstrate that opening of the mechanosensitive cation channel Piezo1 on the EC surface triggers rapid WPB exocytosis. The dynamics and mechanisms were investigated using the Piezo1 agonist (Yoda1) and by modelling mechanical opening through EC-ICAM-1 ligation by THP-1 cells under low shear flow. In vitro, localised von Willebrand Factor (VWF) secretion occurred at THP-1 adhesion sites, suggesting a reciprocity of VWF release alongside leukocyte capture. In vivo, Yoda1 stimulation of tissues resulted in a dramatic increase in neutrophil and platelet adhesion to postcapillary venular walls, spatially aligned with cargo release (VWF). The rapid dynamics of this response was revealed by the application of high resolution confocal intravital microscopy to transgenic EGFP-Rab27a mice that exhibit fluorescent WPBs and neutrophils. These data reveal a previously unrecognised instigator of WPB exocytosis and uncover a mechanosensitive molecular pathway coupling inflammation with haemostasis.