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The role of Orai–STIM calcium channels in melanocytes and melanoma
Author(s) -
Stanisz Hedwig,
Vultur Adina,
Herlyn Meenhard,
Roesch Alexander,
Bogeski Ivan
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
the journal of physiology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.802
H-Index - 240
eISSN - 1469-7793
pISSN - 0022-3751
DOI - 10.1113/jp271141
Subject(s) - stim1 , endoplasmic reticulum , orai1 , calcium signaling , microbiology and biotechnology , stromal cell , chemistry , signalling , cancer cell , melanoma , secretion , cancer , voltage dependent calcium channel , cancer research , signal transduction , biology , calcium , biochemistry , genetics , organic chemistry
Calcium signalling within normal and cancer cells regulates many important cellular functions such as migration, proliferation, differentiation and cytokine secretion. Store operated Ca 2+ entry (SOCE) via the Ca 2+ release activated Ca 2+ (CRAC) channels, which are composed of the plasma membrane based Orai channels and the endoplasmic reticulum stromal interaction molecules (STIMs), is a major Ca 2+ entry route in many cell types. Orai and STIM have been implicated in the growth and metastasis of multiple cancers; however, while their involvement in cancer is presently indisputable, how Orai–STIM‐controlled Ca 2+ signals affect malignant transformation, tumour growth and invasion is not fully understood. Here, we review recent studies linking Orai–STIM Ca 2+ channels with cancer, with a particular focus on melanoma. We highlight and examine key molecular players and the signalling pathways regulated by Orai and STIM in normal and malignant cells, we expose discrepancies, and we reflect on the potential of Orai–STIMs as anticancer drug targets. Finally, we discuss the functional implications of future discoveries in the field of Ca 2+ signalling.