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Mechanisms of tumor invasion and metastasis
1Women's Cancers Section, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
Abstract:
Metastasis is the cascade of events involved in the transition of a malignancy from a localized tumor to the establishment of a distant foci. In this review we define the known stages and the factors involved. The multiplicity of steps involved allows many opportunities for therapeutic intervention. Current research has focused on interruption of a step or a series of steps to limit the spread of cancer. With emphasis on the urologic malignancies, we outline the research thus far accomplished in the field of metastasis.
Insights
Metastasis, the spread of cancer, involves multiple stages offering therapeutic targets. This review details these steps and current research, particularly in urologic malignancies, to limit cancer progression.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cancer Biology
- Urology
Background:
- Metastasis is a complex, multi-step process crucial for cancer progression and patient mortality.
- Understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms of metastasis is vital for developing effective cancer therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define the known stages and factors involved in the metastatic cascade.
- To review current research focused on interrupting metastatic steps for therapeutic intervention.
- To highlight research advancements in metastasis, with a specific emphasis on urologic malignancies.
Main Methods:
- This review synthesizes existing literature on cancer metastasis.
- It defines the sequential stages of the metastatic cascade.
- It analyzes factors influencing each stage and identifies therapeutic targets.
Main Results:
- The metastatic cascade comprises multiple discrete steps, each presenting opportunities for intervention.
- Current research focuses on disrupting specific steps or pathways to inhibit cancer spread.
- Significant progress has been made in understanding metastasis in urologic cancers.
Conclusions:
- The multi-stage nature of metastasis provides numerous points for therapeutic intervention.
- Targeting specific steps in the metastatic cascade holds promise for limiting cancer dissemination.
- Continued research, especially in urologic malignancies, is essential for developing novel anti-metastatic strategies.