Cell invasion is a crucial process in the progression of various biological process and diseases, including embryonic development, tissue repair and cancer metastasis. It refers to the ability of cells to penetrate surrounding tissues and move into new areas, contributing to metastasis and disease progression.
AnyGenes offers innovative products and tools designed to facilitate research on cell invasion. Our high-quality reagents and assay kits enable scientists to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying cell infiltration and develop targeted therapies.
Overview of mechanisms that enable glioblastoma (GBM) cell invasion by shaping the tumor microenvironment.
MECHANISMS OF CELL INVASION
Cell migration involves several stages, including changes in cell adhesion, degradation of the extracellular matrix, migration through tissues. Cells use enzymes like matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) to break down barriers, while cytoskeletal rearrangements enable movement. The epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) also plays a significant role in cell migration, especially in cancer metastasis.
CELL MIGRATION: KEY BIOMARKERS
Several biomarkers are involved in cellular infiltration, including:
MMPs: Enzymes that degrade the extracellular matrix, facilitating tissue penetration.
E-cadherin: A cell adhesion molecule whose down regulation is associated with increased invasiveness.
Vimentin: A mesenchymal marker linked to the EMT process.
Integrins: Proteins that help cells interact with the extracellular matrix and are critical in invasive migration.
Additionally, signaling molecules such as growth factors and cytokines can modulate the invasive behavior of cells.
SIGNALING PATHWAYS IN CELL MIGRATION
The activation of several signaling pathways, such as the PI3K/AKT, Wnt, and TGF-β pathways, is closely linked to invasive cellular behavior. These pathways regulate changes in cell motility, adhesion, and matrix degradation. Actin filaments and microtubules facilitate cellular movement, while signaling pathways like Rho family and GTPases coordinate the reorganization of the cytoskeletton and cell adhesion dynamics.
CLINICAL RELEVANCE AND THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF CELL INVASION PATHWAYS
By studying the mechanisms and biomarkers involved in cell migration, researches can uncover new therapeutic strategies against cancer metastasis. Targeting specific pathways involved in EMT or inhibiting proteolytic enzymes may provide new avenues for treatment. Additionally, understanding cell migration is crucial for improving tissue repair and regeneration strategies.
Mierke CT. Mechanical Cues Affect Migration and Invasion of Cells From Three Different Directions. Front Cell Dev Biol. (2020)17;8:583226.
Vollmann-Zwerenz A, et al. Krakhmal NV, et al. Cancer Invasion: Patterns and Mechanisms. Acta Naturae. (2015); 7(2): 17–28.
Krakhmal NV, et al. Cancer Invasion: Patterns and Mechanisms. Acta Naturae. (2015); 7(2): 17–28.