Sodium's role and therapeutic targeting in cancer

Cancer cells exhibit unique metabolic reprogramming characterized by a significant increase in intracellular sodium ion levels. Sodium influences cancer cell metabolism, immune function, and drug resistance, and can trigger a unique cell death pathway when overloaded. Sodium-related transporters regulate cellular sodium ion levels and cancer progression. Targeting these transporters with specific inhibitors might therefore be an effective way to treat cancer. However, the precise relationship between sodium and cancer cell behavior is insufficiently studied and our understanding of the relevant transporters remains inadequate. In this review we summarize current understanding of the role of sodium in cancer. We analyze the impact of sodium-related transporters on cancer and current therapeutic strategies that target these transporters. We also highlight key challenges and discuss potential strategies for future investigations.