Cell invasion

Cell invasion is the process by which cells, particularly cancer cells, directly extend and penetrate into neighboring tissues. It is distinguished from metastasis, which involves the spread of cancer cells through the circulatory or lymphatic systems to distant locations. Cell invasion can occur through different modes: single cell invasion (including mesenchymal and amoeboid migration types) and collective cell migration. The process involves several steps including detachment from neighboring cells, formation of protrusions, focal adhesion, extracellular matrix degradation through proteolytic enzymes, and cell movement through newly created paths in the matrix. Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a key molecular program that enables tumor cells to detach from their neighbors and acquire invasive properties. Cell invasion is a critical step in cancer progression that precedes metastasis and is associated with poor prognosis. The search results indicate that cell invasion is a biological process rather than a specific molecular target that could be directly targeted therapeutically. It involves complex cellular mechanisms and multiple molecular players rather than being a single receptor or enzyme.

Other names

Cancer invasionTumor invasionLocal invasion

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