HERG1 and Cancer: Exploring the Nexus Between Ion Channels and Tumorigenesis

Abstract

The human ether-a-go-go-related gene-1 (HERG1) is a key structure involved in various physiological activities within voltage-gated potassium channels found in neurons, cardiac cells, and cancer cells, synthesizing a crucial potassium channel protein. Due to its role in potassium channels, HERG1 contributes to neurological network activities such as action potentials, polarization, depolarization, and functions in cardiac impulse conduction. Contrary to common belief, HERG1 plays a significant role in the molecular network of cancer. HERG1 accelerates carcinogenesis and tumorigenesis at abnormal expression levels, functioning as a biomarker. It is highly active in the molecular mechanisms of cancer and shows promise in targeted therapy research. Based on clinical findings, HERG1 directs researchers toward alternative therapeutic approaches. While combined treatment methods, incorporating traditional chemotherapy, may be employed, this will not be straightforward. Mapping out the complex network of molecular cancer biology and explaining the interactions between multiple signaling pathways will make the research process quite challenging and laborious. This review comprehensively evaluates HERG1's function in molecular cancer biology.

Cite this article as: Demirezen A, Erbaş O. HERG1 and Cancer: Exploring the Nexus Between Ion Channels and Tumorigenesis. JEB Med Sci 2024;5(4):247-253.

The authors declared no conflicts of interest with respect to the authorship and/or publication of this article.

The authors received no financial support for the research and/or authorship of this article.