The Calcium Channel CaT1 in Prostate Cancer Progression

Abstract : This project focuses on the potential role of the calcium-selective ion channel, CaT1, in prostate Cancer progression. Although the physiological role of CaT1 is still poorly understood, it may be a "store-operated" calcium pore, a type of channel that is known to play a role in cell growth and survival regulation. The Aims of this project are to (1) Develop specific antibodies against CaT1 and characterize its expression pattern(s) in human prostate cancer tissues; and to (2) Determine the role of CaT1 in cell growth and survival regulation in human prostate cancer cells. We have successfully completed most of the objectives in Aim (Task) 1. During the first funding year, we developed and characterized a CaT1 antibody suitable for highly specific detection of the CaT1 protein in tissues. We used this novel reagent to characterize the expression patterns of CaT1 protein in mouse and human; we discovered that CaT1 is expressed by a number of exocrine organs; and we discovered that CaT1 is overexpressed in prostate, breast, thyroid, colon and ovarian carcinomas. These findings indicate that -CaT1 is likely to serve as a component of transcellular calcium transport mechanisms in many tissues and epithelial cancers.