Inhibition and Treatment in Adhesion, Migration, Invasion, and Metastasis of Cancer Cells

Dear Colleagues,

Adhesion, migration, invasion and metastasis are key processes in the progression of cancer, representing critical steps through which cancer cells spread from their primary site to distant organs, leading to the establishment of secondary tumors. These processes are regulated by a complex network of signaling pathways that involve various molecules, including integrins, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and the components of the extracellular matrix (ECM). The interactions between cancer cells and the ECM not only facilitate the physical movement of cells, but also activate signaling pathways that promote the survival, proliferation and further spread of cancer cells.

The ability of cancer cells to adhere, migrate and invade is closely linked to their phenotypic plasticity connected to phenomena such as the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), which is a critical mechanism for acquiring invasive properties. Furthermore, the tumor microenvironment plays a pivotal role in supporting and enhancing these processes through the secretion of growth factors, cytokines and chemokines, thereby creating a favorable niche for cancer progression.

This Special Issue seeks to gather original research articles and comprehensive reviews that explore the molecular mechanisms of these critical cancer progression steps and the development of therapeutic strategies to target them. Contributions may include studies on the molecular mechanisms regulating adhesion, migration, invasion and metastasis; the role of the tumor microenvironment in facilitating cancer cell mobility; advances in identifying molecular targets and developing inhibitors; preclinical and clinical investigations of novel therapeutic agents.

We look forward to your valuable contribution.

Prof. Dr. Magdalena Izdebska
Dr. Marta Hałas-Wiśniewska
Dr. Wioletta Zielińska
Guest Editors

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• migration
• metastasis
• invasion
• tumor progression
• cell adhesion
• cancer
• epithelial–mesenchymal transition
• cancer therapy