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Updated: Jun 16, 2025

Author Spotlight: Exploring the Role of Ion Channels in Cancer: Characterization and Potential Treatment Approaches
Published on: June 16, 2023
The research progress into cellular mechanosensitive ion channels mediating cancer pain
Chang Liu1, Haiyan Li2, Lihua Hang1,2
1Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, The First People's Hospital of Kunshan, Suzhou, China.
None:
Cellular mechanotransduction refers to the process through which cells perceive mechanical stimuli and subsequently translate them into biochemical signals. Key mechanosensitive ion channels encompass PIEZO, TREK-1, and TRESK. These mechanosensitive ion channels are crucial in regulating specific pathophysiological conditions, including fibrosis, tumor progression, and cellular proliferation and differentiation. Recent research indicates that PIEZO, TREK-1, and TRESK are significant contributors to various types of cancer pain by sensing mechanical stimuli, which subsequently activate internal signaling pathways. Here concentrates on advancements in research concerning PIEZO, TREK-1, and TRESK in cancer pain research, aiming to lay the groundwork for creating new therapeutic drugs that address mechanosensitive ion channels for treating cancer pain.
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