Gaia Agnese Marzi

Dr. Gaia Agnese Marzi

orcid

Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

5Years (2022-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

View All Publications
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
DMDario Melgari
Dario Melgari
AFAnthony Frosio
Anthony Frosio
SCSerena Calamaio
Serena Calamaio
GMGaia Agnese Marzi
Gaia Agnese Marzi
CPCarlo Pappone
Carlo Pappone
Ilaria RivoltaIlaria Rivolta
Ilaria Rivolta
The role of T-type calcium channels is well established in excitable cells, where they preside over action potential generation, automaticity, and firing. They also contribute to intracellular calcium signaling, cell cycle progression, and cell fate; and, in this sense, they emerge as key regulators also in non-excitable cells. In particular, their expression may be considered a prognostic factor in cancer. Almost all cancer cells express T-type calcium channels to the point that it has been considered a pharmacological target; but, as the drugs used to reduce their expression are not completely selective, several complications develop, especially within the heart. T-type calcium channels are also involved in a specific side effect of several anticancer agents, that act on microtubule transport, increase the expression of the channel, and, thus, the excitability of sensory neurons, and make the patient more sensitive to pain. This review puts into context the relevance of T-type calcium channels in cancer and in chemotherapy side effects, considering also the cardiotoxicity induced by new classes of antineoplastic molecules.