Scientists discover the origins of metastasis
- Date:
- March 9, 2022
- Source:
- Université de Genève
- Summary:
- Metastatic cells form in a primary tumor and then break away from it, migrate to other organs, attach to them and form new tumors. This spread reduces patients' chances of recovery. Scientists have discovered some of the mechanisms by which these cells arise. This is due to cells that have narrowly escaped cell death (apoptosis) following a chemotherapeutic treatment. Those cells reprogram themselves to acquire metastatic skills. Thanks to this study, these cells - called PAME by the researchers - now appear as new therapeutic targets.
- Share:
Metastatic cells form in a primary tumour and then break away from it, migrate to other organs, attach to them and form new tumours. This spread reduces patients' chances of recovery. Scientists at the University of Geneva (UNIGE) have discovered some of the mechanisms by which these cells arise. This is due to cells that have narrowly escaped cell death (apoptosis) following a chemotherapeutic treatment. Those cells reprogram themselves to acquire metastatic skills. Thanks to this study, these cells -- called PAME by the researchers -- now appear as new therapeutic targets. These results can be read in the journal Cell Reports.
Story Source:
Materials provided by Université de Genève. Note: Content may be edited for style and length.
Journal Reference:
- Arwen Conod, Marianna Silvano, Ariel Ruiz i Altaba. On the origin of metastases: Induction of pro-metastatic states after impending cell death via ER stress, reprogramming, and a cytokine storm. Cell Reports, 2022; 38 (10): 110490 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.110490
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