[Tumor, metastasis and what's in between]

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Molecular Biology
• Translational Research

Background:

• Metastatic disease accounts for over 90% of cancer-related deaths globally.
• The role of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in metastasis has been historically unclear.
• Recent technological advancements enable the detection and analysis of CTCs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce the concept and significance of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) to the Israeli medical community.
• To encourage participation in basic and translational research on CTCs.
• To highlight the potential of CTCs in advancing cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Main Methods:

• Review of technological advancements in CTC detection and isolation from peripheral blood.
• Analysis of quantitative, genetic, and phenotypic data from CTCs.
• Discussion of the implications of CTCs in cancer research and clinical practice.

Main Results:

• CTCs can be quantitatively analyzed for content, genetic, and phenotypic changes.
• CTCs hold promise for early cancer detection, prognosis, and treatment response assessment.
• The study of CTCs raises important questions about their identity and role in metastasis.

Conclusions:

• Circulating tumor cells represent a significant breakthrough in cancer research.
• CTCs have the potential to revolutionize surgical oncology, tumor surveillance, and clinical oncology.
• Active research in CTCs is crucial for advancing cancer care and patient outcomes.