What Drives the "Wet Dog Shakes" Reflex in Furry Animals?
What Drives the "Wet Dog Shakes" Reflex in Furry Animals?
Scientists identified the mechanoreceptor that triggers the distinctive shake-off behavior observed in mice when they become wet.
Scientists identified the mechanoreceptor that triggers the distinctive shake-off behavior observed in mice when they become wet.
mechanoreception
Mechanosensory Protein Helps Tendons Stiffen After Exercise
Catherine Offord | Sep 1, 2021 | 2 min read
Researchers identify a role for PIEZO1 in tendon adaptation, and show that people with certain versions of the Piezo1 gene tend to be better jumpers.
Nucleus Is Key to How Cells Sense Personal Space
Abby Olena, PhD | Oct 15, 2020 | 4 min read
In two independent studies, researchers find that the organelle is responsible for a switch that allows cells to start moving when they’re squeezed.
Image of the Day: Stretchy Chicken Skin
The Scientist | Aug 25, 2017 | 1 min read
In a developing chicken embryo, skin cells pull on each other, forming multicellular mounds that eventually turn into properly-spaced feathers.
Seal Whiskers Can Detect Weak Water Currents
Catherine Offord | Jan 18, 2017 | 3 min read
The marine predators may use the mechanosensory hairs to detect fish that are hiding motionless on the seafloor.
Human Hearing: A Primer
The Scientist | Sep 1, 2015 | 1 min read
How the human ear translates sound waves into nervous impulses
Hearing Explained
The Scientist | Aug 31, 2015 | 1 min read
Observe the ins and outs of how our ears perceive sound.
Grading on the Curve
Edyta Zielinska | Jun 1, 2012 | 2 min read
Actin filaments respond to pressure by forming branches at their curviest spots, helping resist the push.
Electric Dolphins?
Jef Akst | Jul 27, 2011 | 1 min read
Like many fish and amphibians, the Guiana dolphin can sense low levels of electrical activity in the water—an ability not previously reported in true mammals.