Epithelial cell plasticity in neoplasia.

Tumor metastasis is associated with an increase in the plasticity of malignant cells, a phenomenon that is characterized by changes in cell morphology and a decrease in intercellular cohesiveness. The plasticity of cells is correlated with their motility. Therefore, factors that enhance plasticity promote the migration of malignant cells from a primary tumor. Several cytokines that induce the dissociation and dispersal of malignant cells have now been described. By inhibiting the activity of motogenic cytokines, it may be possible to design effective strategies for the treatment of patients with metastatic cancer.