Publication Date
1-1-2023
Journal
Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology
DOI
10.3389/fcell.2023.1221784
PMID
37440925
PMCID
PMC10333702
PubMedCentral® Posted Date
6-27-2023
PubMedCentral® Full Text Version
Post-Print
Published Open-Access
yes
Keywords
breast cancer, tumor microenvironment, CTC (circulating tumor cells), dormancy, metastasis (cancer metastasis), metastatic niche
Abstract
Breast cancer has emerged as the most commonly diagnosed cancer and primary cause of cancer-related deaths among women worldwide. Although significant progress has been made in targeting the primary tumor, the effectiveness of systemic treatments to prevent metastasis remains limited. Metastatic disease continues to be the predominant factor leading to fatality in the majority of breast cancer patients. The existence of a prolonged latency period between initial treatment and eventual recurrence in certain patients indicates that tumors can both adapt to and interact with the systemic environment of the host, facilitating and sustaining the progression of the disease. In order to identify potential therapeutic interventions for metastasis, it will be crucial to gain a comprehensive framework surrounding the mechanisms driving the growth, survival, and spread of tumor cells, as well as their interaction with supporting cells of the microenvironment. This review aims to consolidate recent discoveries concerning critical aspects of breast cancer metastasis, encompassing the intricate network of cells, molecules, and physical factors that contribute to metastasis, as well as the molecular mechanisms governing cancer dormancy.
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