REVIEW: Evolution of Cell Interactions with Extracellular Matrix during Carcinogenesis

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A. Y. Alexandrova

Institute of Carcinogenesis, Blokhin Russian Cancer Research Center, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, Kashirskoe Shosse 24, 115478 Moscow, Russia; fax: (495) 324-1205; E-mail: tonya_alex@yahoo.com

Received December 19, 2007

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Interaction of cells with extracellular matrix (ECM) largely defines migration capacity of cells and ways of their dissemination in normal tissue processes and during tumor progression. We review current knowledge about structure of cell adhesions with ECM and their alterations during carcinogenesis. We analyze how changes in structure of cell-matrix adhesions and ECM itself lead to acquisition of neoplastic properties by cells. Modern concepts of tumor cell motility and changes in the relationships of cells with ECM during tumor development are presented. Contemporary approaches for influencing the cell-ECM adhesion structures for inhibition of invasion and metastasis are briefly discussed.

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KEY WORDS: focal adhesions, actin cytoskeleton, extracellular matrix, cell migration, invasion

DOI: 10.1134/S0006297908070018

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