Ion Channels and Their Role in the Pathophysiology of Gliomas

Abstract

Malignant gliomas are the most common primary central nervous system tumors and their prognosis is very poor. In recent years, ion channels have been demonstrated to play important roles in tumor pathophysiology such as regulation of gene expression, cell migration, and cell proliferation. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the role of ion channels on the development and progression of gliomas. Cell volume changes through the regulation of ion flux, accompanied by water flux, are essential for migration and invasion. Signaling pathways affected by ion channel activity play roles in cell survival and cell proliferation. Moreover, ion channels are involved in glioma-related seizures, sensitivity to chemotherapy, and tumor metabolism. Ion channels are potential targets for the treatment of these lethal tumors. Despite our increased understanding of the contributions of ion channels to glioma biology, this field remains poorly studied. This review summarizes the current literature on this important topic.