Metastasis

Metastasis refers to the spread of cancer cells from their primary site of origin to other parts of the body. It is the most common cause of death from cancer and is a major obstacle to successful cancer treatment. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying metastasis is essential for developing new strategies for controlling the disease. Therapies that target the process of metastasis, such as those that block tumor cell migration and invasion, could improve the prognosis of patients with cancer. Knowledge of the mechanisms of metastasis can also guide the choice of treatments, such as radiotherapy or chemotherapy, that are most effective against certain tumor types.