Mechanisms of tumor metastasis: Anatomical mimicry?

Introduction Tumour metastasis occurs when cancerous cells detach from the primary tumour, travel to a distant site via the circulatory system and establish a secondary tumour. This process requires the cancerous cells to acquire certain characteristics that are not expressed by normal somatic cells and which afford them migratory capabilities. This review analyses mechanisms through which metastatic cancer cells conquer normal body structure and function for them to move from their primary site to a secondary location. Conclusion For cancer metastasis to occur, the migrating cells take advantage of and/or modify normal anatomical structures and functions.