T-type calcium channels: A potential novel target in melanoma

Abstract

T-type calcium channels (TTCCs) are overexpressed in several cancers. In this review, we summarize the recent advances and new insights into TTCC biology, tumor progression, and prognosis biomarker and therapeutic potential in the melanoma field. We describe a novel correlation between the Cav3.1 isoform and the increased basal autophagy in BRAFV600E-mutant melanomas and after acquired resistance to BRAF inhibitors. Indeed, TTCC blockers reduce melanoma cell viability and migration/invasion in vitro and tumor growth in mice xenografts in both BRAF-inhibitor-sensitive and-resistant scenarios. These studies open a new, promising therapeutic approach for disseminated melanoma and improved treatment in BRAFi relapsed melanomas, but further validation and clinical trials are needed for it to become a real therapeutic option.