PIEZO1 (Piezo Type Mechanosensitive Ion Channel Component 1): PIEZO1 is a mechanically activated ion channel that detects physical forces such as pressure and stretch in tissues like blood vessels and the lungs. It is essential for vascular development, blood pressure control, and cell volume regulation. Variants in the PIEZO1 gene are associated with hereditary xerocytosis — a disorder marked by dehydrated red blood cells — and other conditions affecting mechanosensation.