Referenced in: none

Automatically associated channels: ClC3 , ClC4

Title: CLC-3 channels in cancer (review).

Authors: Sen Hong, Miaomiao Bi, Lei Wang, Zhenhua Kang, Limian Ling, Chunyan Zhao

Journal, date & volume: Oncol. Rep., 2015 Feb , 33, 507-14

PubMed link: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25421907

Abstract
Ion channels are involved in regulating cell proliferation and apoptosis (programed cell death). Since increased cellular proliferation and inhibition of apoptosis are characteristic features of tumorigenesis, targeting ion channels is a promising strategy for treating cancer. CLC-3 is a member of the voltage-gated chloride channel superfamily and is expressed in many cancer cells. In the plasma membrane, CLC-3 functions as a chloride channel and is associated with cell proliferation and apoptosis. CLC-3 is also located in intracellular compartments, contributing to their acidity, which increases sequestration of drugs and leads to chemotherapy drug resistance. In this review, we summarize the recent findings concerning the involvement of CLC-3 in cancer and explore its potential in cancer therapy.