Beta-subunits of voltage-gated sodium channels in human prostate cancer: quantitative in vitro and in vivo analyses of mRNA expression

Prostate Cancer Prostatic Dis. 2008;11(4):325-33. doi: 10.1038/sj.pcan.4501012. Epub 2007 Sep 25.

Abstract

We previously identified high levels of Na(v)1.7 voltage-gated sodium channel alpha-subunit (VGSCalpha) mRNA and protein in human prostate cancer cells and tissues. Here, we investigated auxillary beta-subunit (VGSCbetas) expression. In vitro, the combined expression of all four VGSCbetas was significantly (approximately 4.5-fold) higher in strongly compared to weakly metastatic cells. This was mainly due to increased beta1-expression, which was under androgenic control. In vivo, beta1-beta4 mRNAs were detectable and their expression in CaP vs non-CaP tissues generally reflected the in vitro levels in relation to metastatic potential. The possible role(s) of VGSCbetas (VGSCalpha-associated and VGSCalpha-independent) in prostate cancer are discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Androgens / pharmacology
  • Cell Line, Tumor
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic* / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Ion Channel Gating*
  • Male
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / genetics
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / metabolism*
  • Protein Subunits / genetics
  • Protein Subunits / metabolism
  • RNA, Messenger / genetics
  • Sodium Channels / genetics
  • Sodium Channels / metabolism*

Substances

  • Androgens
  • Protein Subunits
  • RNA, Messenger
  • Sodium Channels