Comprehensive understanding of anchorage-independent survival and its implication in cancer metastasis

Cell Death Dis. 2021 Jun 18;12(7):629. doi: 10.1038/s41419-021-03890-7.

Abstract

Detachment is the initial and critical step for cancer metastasis. Only the cells that survive from detachment can develop metastases. Following the disruption of cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions, cells are exposed to a totally different chemical and mechanical environment. During which, cells inevitably suffer from multiple stresses, including loss of growth stimuli from ECM, altered mechanical force, cytoskeletal reorganization, reduced nutrient uptake, and increased reactive oxygen species generation. Here we review the impact of these stresses on the anchorage-independent survival and the underlying molecular signaling pathways. Furthermore, its implications in cancer metastasis and treatment are also discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Adhesion*
  • Cell Movement*
  • Cell Survival
  • Cell-Matrix Junctions / metabolism
  • Cell-Matrix Junctions / pathology*
  • Humans
  • Mechanotransduction, Cellular*
  • Neoplasm Invasiveness
  • Neoplasm Metastasis
  • Neoplasms / metabolism
  • Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Stress, Mechanical
  • Tumor Microenvironment