Review Metastasis

Most cancer-associated deaths occur due to metastasis, yet our understanding of metastasis as an evolving, heterogeneous, systemic disease and of how to effectively treat it is still emerging. Metastasis requires the acquisition of a succession of traits to disseminate, variably enter and exit dormancy, and colonize distant organs. The success of these events is driven by clonal selection, the potential of metastatic cells to dynamically transition into distinct states, and their ability to co-opt the immune environment. Here, we review the main principles of metastasis and highlight emerging opportunities to develop more effective therapies for metastatic cancer.

Automated summary

Most cancer-associated deaths are caused by metastasis, which is still being studied for a better understanding and more effective treatment. Metastasis involves the acquisition of traits for dissemination, variable dormancy, and colonization of distant organs. Clonal selection, dynamic cell state transitions, and immune environment co-option are driving factors for successful metastasis. This review highlights the main principles of metastasis and presents emerging opportunities for developing better therapies.