STIM2: Redox-sensor and effector of the (tumor) microenvironment

Ion channels and their associated proteins are at the interface between the cytosol and the extracellular space. In cancer, this allows them to sense and transduce physico-chemical cues from the tumor microenvironment and thereby shape the aggressive cell behavior. In a recent paper Gibhardt et al. provide profound mechanistic insight how STIM2, an integral component of the store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) mechanism in melanoma cells, is redox-regulated.

Automated summary

Ion channels and associated proteins act as a critical interface in cancer cells, sensing and transducing physical-chemical cues from the tumor microenvironment to shape cell behavior. In a recent study, Gibhardt et al. demonstrated how STIM2, a key component of the store-operated Ca2+ entry mechanism in melanoma cells, is regulated by redox signaling.