title: Cell adhesion molecules and their relation to (cancer) cell stemness.
abstract: Despite decades of search for anticancer drugs targeting solid tumors, this group of diseases remains largely incurable, especially if in advanced, metastatic stage. In this review, we draw comparison between reprogramming and carcinogenesis, as well as between stem cells (SCs) and cancer stem cells (CSCs), focusing on changing garniture of adhesion molecules. Furthermore, we elaborate on the role of adhesion molecules in the regulation of (cancer) SCs division (symmetric or asymmetric), and in evolving interactions between CSCs and extracellular matrix. Among other aspects, we analyze the role and changes of expression of key adhesion molecules as cancer progresses and metastases develop. Here, the role of cadherins, integrins, as well as selected transcription factors like Twist and Snail is highlighted, not only in the regulation of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition but also in the avoidance of anoikis. Finally, we briefly discuss recent developments and new strategies targeting CSCs, which focus on adhesion molecules or targeting tumor vasculature.
authors: Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Cell Biology and Integrative Regenerative Medicine Center (IGEN) and.
authors: Ensieh
authors: E
authors: Farahani
authors: Hirak K
authors: HK
authors: Patra
authors: Jaganmohan R
authors: JR
authors: Jangamreddy
authors: Iran
authors: I
authors: Rashedi
authors: Marta
authors: M
authors: Kawalec
authors: Rama K
authors: RK
authors: Rao Pariti
authors: Petros
authors: P
authors: Batakis
authors: Emilia
authors: E
authors: Wiechec
mesh_terms: D015815:Cell Adhesion Molecules / Q000502:physiology*; D058750:Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition; D006801:Humans; D014411:Neoplastic Stem Cells / Q000166:cytology*; D013234:Stem Cells / Q000166:cytology*
chemical_list: D015815:Cell Adhesion Molecules