Objective To investigate the biological function of the intermediate-conductance calcium-activated potassium channel (KCNN4) and the inhibitory effect of its small molecule inhibitor, Senicapoc, in prostate cancer.

Methods  Small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated KCNN4 knockdown was performed in DU145 and C4-2 cell lines. Cell counting kit- 8 (CCK-8) assays, Transwell assays, and wound-healing assays were conducted to evaluate the changes in cell proliferation and migration. The cell lines WPMY-1, 22RV-1, C4-2, and DU145 were treated with Senicapoc. The effects of Senicapoc on cell proliferation and migration were assessed using CCK-8 assays, colony formation assays, and wound-healing assays.

Results Downregulation of KCNN4 significantly reduced cell viability and cell migration (P<0.05). Senicapoc treatment significantly decreased cell viability, colony numbers, and migration rates (P<0.05).

Conclusion  KCNN4 promotes the proliferation and migration of prostate cancer cells. Targeting KCNN4 may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for prostate cancer.

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