Calcium homeostasis and cancer: insights from endoplasmic reticulum-centered organelle communications.

Calcium ion (Ca) is a ubiquitous and versatile signaling molecule controlling a wide variety of cellular processes, such as proliferation, cell death, migration, and immune response, all fundamental processes essential for the establishment of cancer. In recent decades, the loss of Ca homeostasis has been considered an important driving force in the initiation and progression of malignant diseases. The primary intracellular Ca store, the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), plays an essential role in maintaining Ca homeostasis by coordinating with other organelles and the plasma membrane. Here, we discuss the dysregulation of ER-centered Ca homeostasis in cancer, summarize Ca-based anticancer therapeutics, and highlight the significance of furthering our understanding of Ca homeostasis regulation in cancer.