The biology of metastasis to a sanctuary site

Clin Cancer Res. 2007 Mar 15;13(6):1656-62. doi: 10.1158/1078-0432.CCR-06-2659.

Abstract

Metastasis to the brain is prevalent in solid tumors and lymphomas, and is associated with shortened survival. The brain is regarded as a sanctuary site for metastatic tumor cells where they exist partially protected from drugs by the blood-tumor barrier. Model systems for brain metastasis have been developed and are now yielding mechanistic insights into the roles of angiogenesis, energy metabolism, the Her-2 and Stat3 signaling pathways, and dormancy. Specific, new approaches to combat brain metastatic disease are needed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Intramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Brain / blood supply
  • Brain Neoplasms / blood supply
  • Brain Neoplasms / etiology*
  • Brain Neoplasms / secondary*
  • Cell Membrane Permeability / physiology
  • Disease Models, Animal
  • Disease Progression
  • Energy Metabolism / physiology
  • Humans
  • Melanoma, Experimental / pathology
  • Models, Biological
  • Neovascularization, Pathologic / pathology
  • Receptor, ErbB-2 / physiology
  • STAT3 Transcription Factor / physiology

Substances

  • STAT3 Transcription Factor
  • Receptor, ErbB-2