Ion Channels in Cancer

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

Ion channels are expressed in many cancers and contribute to disease progression. A number of ion channels are well established as clinical targets for a range of (non- cancer) pathologies. This Chapter will introduce the principal ion channel classes that have been identified in cancer cells, including those permeant to K+, Na+, Ca2+, and Cl-, and their functional role. Particularly important is that in addition to regulating ion flux, a number of ion channels also play critical roles in non-conducting signaling pathways, e.g. via cell-cell or cell-substrate adhesion, and interaction with manifold intracellular signaling partners and cascades. Our current understanding of the complex involvement of ion channels in regulating the various “hallmarks” of cancer, including sustained proliferation, apoptosis resistance, migration, invasion, and metastasis will be discussed. Finally, the emerging evidence in favor of ion channels as novel therapeutic targets in cancer is presented, raising the exciting possibility that repurposing ion channel-modulating drugs to a range of cancers may improve clinical outcome.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationIon Channels In Health and Disease, 1st Edition
EditorsGeoffrey Pitt
PublisherAcademic Press
Edition1
ISBN (Print)0128020172, 9780128020173
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 28 Jul 2016

Publication series

NamePerspectives in Translational Cell Biology
PublisherAcademic Press

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