Mechanical sensors operate through a process known as mechanotransduction, where mechanical stimuli are converted into electrical or chemical signals. This process involves:
Mechanical Deformation: The initial step involves the deformation of the sensor due to mechanical forces. Ion Channel Activation: Deformation leads to the opening or closing of ion channels in the cell membrane, altering the cell's ionic balance. Signal Transmission: The change in ionic balance generates an electrical signal that is transmitted to the central nervous system for processing.
