Pore-forming subunit of a mechanosensitive non-specific cation channel (PubMed:23479567, PubMed:23695678, PubMed:25955826). Conductance to monovalent alkali ions is highest for K(+), intermediate for Na(+) and lowest for Li(+). Divalent ions except for Mn(2+) permeate the channel but more slowly than the monovalent ions and they also reduce K(+) currents (PubMed:25955826). Generates currents characterized by a linear current-voltage relationship that are sensitive to ruthenium red and gadolinium. Plays a key role in epithelial cell adhesion by maintaining integrin activation through R-Ras recruitment to the ER, most probably in its activated state, and subsequent stimulation of calpain signaling (PubMed:20016066). In the kidney, may contribute to the detection of intraluminal pressure changes and to urine flow sensing. Acts as a shear-stress sensor that promotes endothelial cell organization and alignment in the direction of blood flow through calpain activation (PubMed:25119035). Plays a key role in blood vessel formation and vascular structure in both development and adult physiology (By similarity). Acts as a sensor of phosphatidylserine (PS) flipping at the plasma membrane and governs morphogenesis of muscle cells. In myoblasts, flippase-mediated PS enrichment at the inner leaflet of plasma membrane triggers channel activation and Ca2+ influx followed by Rho GTPases signal transduction, leading to assembly of cortical actomyosin fibers and myotube formation (PubMed:29799007).
