Gene products which play a role in cancer invasion and metastasis

Invasion requires a number of distinct tumor cell interactions with host tissue, beginning with attachment to the matrix, followed by hydrolysis of matrix material and locomotion. Gene products which may be involved in these steps are discussed here. Laminin receptors and integrins have roles in the adhesion phase, while certain collagenases are prominent among the matrix-degrading enzymes. Autocrine motility factors, distinct from growth factors, appear to be involved in tumor cell locomotion. Finally, certain oncogenes, particularly of the ras family, are closely related with metastatic potential. A detailed understanding of the molecular biology of invasion and metastasis could ultimately lead to specific means of interfering with or even reversing these malignant processes.