Interplay of Ca2+ and K+ signals in cell physiology and cancer

The cytoplasmic Ca2+ concentration and the activity of K+ channels on the plasma membrane regulate cellular processes ranging from mitosis to oriented migration. The interplay between Ca2+ and K+ signals is intricate, and different cell types rely on peculiar cellular mechanisms. Derangement of these mechanisms accompanies the neoplastic progression. The calcium signals modulated by voltage-gated (KV) and calcium-dependent (KCa) K+ channel activity regulate progression of the cell division cycle, the release of growth factors, apoptosis, cell motility and migration. Moreover, KV channels regulate the cell response to the local microenvironment by assembling with cell adhesion and growth factor receptors. This chapter summarizes the pathophysiological roles of Ca2+ and K+ fluxes in normal and cancer cells, by concentrating on several biological systems in which these functions have been studied in depth, such as early embryos, mammalian cell lines, T lymphocytes, gliomas and colorectal cancer cells. A full understanding of the underlying mechanisms will offer a comprehensive view of the ion channel implication in cancer biology and suggest potential pharmacological targets for novel therapeutic approaches in oncology.