Track 12: Cancer Metastasis

Sub Tracks: cancer metastasis
Primary Tumor: - Genetic Mutations - Tumor Microenvironment - Angiogenesis Invasion: - Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) - Matrix Degradation - Migration Factors Intravasation: - Interaction with Blood Vessels - Enzymes like MMPs - Cell Survival Mechanisms Circulation: - Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCs) - Platelet Shielding - Immune Evasion Extravasation: - Endothelial Adhesion - Vascular Permeability - Exit from Vasculature Secondary Tumor: - Colonization - Dormancy vs. Proliferation - Organ-specific Factors

What is cancer metastasis?

Cancer metastasis refers to the process by which cancer cells spread from their original (primary) site to other parts of the body, forming new (secondary) tumors. This is a hallmark of cancer progression and often signifies a more advanced and serious stage of the disease.

Key steps in metastasis:

·  Detachment from the Primary Tumor: Cancer cells break away from the primary tumor, overcoming cellular adhesion mechanisms.

·  Invasion into Surrounding Tissues: The cells invade nearby tissues by degrading the extracellular matrix using enzymes like matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs).

·  Intravasation: Cancer cells enter nearby blood vessels or lymphatic vessels.

·  Survival in Circulation: Within the bloodstream or lymphatic system, cancer cells must survive immune attacks and shear forces.

·  Extravasation: The cells exit the blood or lymphatic vessels and migrate into distant tissues.

·  Colonization: The cancer cells grow and form secondary tumors in the new location, a process that often involves adapting to the microenvironment of the new tissue.