Circulating extracellular vesicles and tumor cells: sticky partners in metastasis

The intravascular behavior of tumor- derived extracellular vesicles ( EVs) and circulating tumor cells (CTCs) lies at the heart of the metastatic cascade. Their capacity to disseminate and stop at specific vascular regions precedes and determines the formation of metastatic foci. We discuss in detail the central role of cellular adhesion molecules (CAMs) that are present on EV/CTC surface, as well as their endothelial ligands, in dictating their arrest site and their capacity to exit the vasculature. We focus on the differences and similarities between CAMs on CTCs and EVs, and speculate about their role in the organotropism of different cancer types. Better understanding of the binding mechanisms might pinpoint potential targets for novel therapies.

Automated summary

The intravascular behavior of tumor-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) and circulating tumor cells (CTCs) plays a crucial role in the metastatic cascade. Understanding the role of cellular adhesion molecules (CAMs) and their endothelial ligands in dictating the arrest site and exit capacity of EVs/CTCs could provide insight into novel targets for therapies. Exploring the differences and similarities between CAMs on CTCs and EVs may help in understanding their role in organotropism of different cancer types.