Invasion & Metastasis: Mechanisms and Implications

This lecture delves into the mechanisms underlying invasion and metastasis in cancer, highlighting the critical role of cell adhesion, signaling rewiring, and organotropism. It explores how cancer cells disseminate via lymphatics and blood vessels, emphasizing the importance of the seed and soil hypothesis. The lecture also discusses the invasion-metastasis cascade, the impact of EMT on metastatic potential, and the complex interplay between cancer cells and the microenvironment. Furthermore, it examines the role of integrins, proteases, and transcription factors in promoting invasion and metastasis, shedding light on potential therapeutic targets.