Review reveals how mitochondrial dynamics and ion channel crosstalk regulate metabolic flexibility in cancer stem cells, highlighting opportunities for targeted therapies.
Key Points
To review the interconnected regulatory roles of mitochondrial dynamics and ion channel signaling in shaping cancer stem cell metabolic adaptability, survival, and drug resistance.
Narrative review synthesizing molecular evidence on mitochondrial structural remodeling processes, including fission, fusion, biogenesis, and mitophagy.
Evaluation of mitochondrial and organelle-associated ion transport systems—such as the mitochondrial calcium uniporter, voltage-dependent anion channels, and potassium channels—in cellular stress adaptation.
Mitochondrial dynamics interact directly with calcium signaling and ion channels to adjust oxidative phosphorylation, membrane potential, and reactive oxygen species levels.
Ion transport and mitochondrial remodeling coordinate to preserve stemness and promote survival under hypoxia, nutrient deprivation, and anticancer therapies.
Disrupting the crosstalk between mitochondrial dynamics and ion signaling presents novel therapeutic possibilities, provided strategies can selectively spare normal stem cells.