Regulation of cancer cell migration by voltage-gated sodium channels

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The goal of this research proposal is to characterise a potentially new target in metastatic breast cancer. Metastasis is the process by which cancer cells spread from the primary tumour site to secondary sites. Metastasis is of major clinical importance, since it is the main cause of breast cancer mortality. The target of study is the voltage-gated sodium channel (VGSC). VGSCs are found on cells in the nervous system and muscle. Drugs that target VGSCs are used to treat diseases such as epilepsy, abnormal heartbeat and pain. VGSCs regulate the migration of neurones in the developing nervous system. VGSCs also occur in metastatic breast cancer cells and regulate cell behaviours associated with metastasis, including adhesion and migration. The research project, to be carried out at the University of York, will study VGSCs in human breast cancer cells, mice and biopsy samples. We will test the hypothesis that VGSCs control metastasis in breast cancer cells by a mechanism similar to that in migrating neurones. Based on this work, it is possible that VGSCs may be a useful new diagnostic target in breast cancer. In addition, VGSC-targeting drugs may be effective for therapeutic intervention in breast cancer, to reduce and/or slow metastasis.