Effect of circulating tumor cell aggregate configuration on hemodynamic transport and wall contact.

ABSTRACT: Selectin-mediated adhesion of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) to the endothelium is a critical step in cancer metastasis, a major factor contributing to the mortality of cancer. The formation of tethers between tumor cells and endothelial selectins initiates cell rolling, which can lead to firm adhesion, extravasation and the formation of secondary metastases. Tumor cells travel through the bloodstream as single cells, or as aggregates known as circulating tumor microemboli (CTM). CTM have increased survivability and metastatic potential relative to CTCs, and the presence of CTM is associated with worse patient prognosis. The motion of cells and cellular aggregates in flow is a function of their size and shape, and these differences influence the frequency and strength of their contact with

SUBMITTER: Anderson KJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6309786 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature