Adv Cancer Res 2020[]; 148 (?): 233-317 PMID32723565show ga
Ca(2+) is a ubiquitous and dynamic second messenger molecule that is induced by many factors including receptor activation, environmental factors, and voltage, leading to pleiotropic effects on cell function including changes in migration, metabolism and transcription. As such, it is not surprising that aberrant regulation of Ca(2+) signals can lead to pathological phenotypes, including cancer progression. However, given the highly context-specific nature of Ca(2+)-dependent changes in cell function, delineation of its role in cancer has been a challenge. Herein, we discuss the distinct roles of Ca(2+) signaling within and between each type of cancer, including consideration of the potential of therapeutic strategies targeting these signaling pathways.