A tense situation: forcing tumour progression.

TitleA tense situation: forcing tumour progression.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2009
AuthorsButcher DT, Alliston T, Weaver VM
JournalNat Rev Cancer
Volume9
Issue2
Pagination108-22
Date Published2009 Feb
ISSN1474-1768
KeywordsAnimals, Cell Transformation, Neoplastic, Cytoskeleton, Disease Progression, Gene Expression, Humans, Mechanotransduction, Cellular, Neoplasms, Neoplastic Processes, Stress, Mechanical
Abstract

Cells within tissues are continuously exposed to physical forces including hydrostatic pressure, shear stress, and compression and tension forces. Cells dynamically adapt to force by modifying their behaviour and remodelling their microenvironment. They also sense these forces through mechanoreceptors and respond by exerting reciprocal actomyosin- and cytoskeletal-dependent cell-generated force by a process termed 'mechanoreciprocity'. Loss of mechanoreciprocity has been shown to promote the progression of disease, including cancer. Moreover, the mechanical properties of a tissue contribute to disease progression, compromise treatment and might also alter cancer risk. Thus, the changing force that cells experience needs to be considered when trying to understand the complex nature of tumorigenesis.

DOI10.1038/nrc2544
Alternate JournalNat. Rev. Cancer
PubMed ID19165226
PubMed Central IDPMC2649117
Grant List7R01CA078731-07 / CA / NCI NIH HHS / United States
R01 CA078731-07 / CA / NCI NIH HHS / United States
R01 DE019284-01A1 / DE / NIDCR NIH HHS / United States
R03DE016868 / DE / NIDCR NIH HHS / United States