New roles for integrins in squamous-cell carcinoma.
Although integrins are known to mediate invasion and metastasis, recent studies reveal new ways in which they contribute to squamous-cell carcinoma. Integrin mutation or upregulation can expand the tumour stem-cell compartment by inhibiting differentiation or apoptosis. Integrins that are expressed by differentiated cells can stimulate or inhibit the proliferation of neighbouring tumour stem cells. These findings provide a mechanistic basis for the well-established links between altered integrin expression and tumour prognosis.
Keratinocyte Laboratory, Cancer Research UK London Research Institute, 44 Lincoln's Inn Fields, London WC2A 3PX, UK.
Sam M
SM
Janes
Fiona M
FM
Watt
D000818:Animals; D002294:Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000473:pathology; D002454:Cell Differentiation; D049109:Cell Proliferation; D006801:Humans; D016023:Integrins / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism*; D009361:Neoplasm Invasiveness; D009362:Neoplasm Metastasis; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000276:immunology / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000473:pathology
D016023:Integrins