Calcium homeostasis and cancer: insights from endoplasmic reticulum-centered organelle communications

Abstract

Calcium ion (Ca²⁺) is a ubiquitous and versatile signaling molecule controlling a wide variety of cellular processes, such as proliferation, cell death, migration, and immune response, all fundamental processes essential for the establishment of cancer. In recent decades, the loss of Ca²⁺ homeostasis has been considered an important driving force in the initiation and progression of malignant diseases. The primary intracellular Ca²⁺ store, the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), plays an essential role in maintaining Ca²⁺ homeostasis by coordinating with other organelles and the plasma membrane. Here, we discuss the dysregulation of ER-centered Ca²⁺ homeostasis in cancer, summarize Ca²⁺-based anticancer therapeutics, and highlight the significance of furthering our understanding of Ca²⁺ homeostasis regulation in cancer.

Keywords: calcium homeostasis; endoplasmic reticulum; intra-organelle communication; mitochondria; oncogene; tumor suppressor.