Premium
Macrophage‐tumor cell associations: a factor in metastasis of breast cancer?
Author(s) -
Netten J.P.,
Ashmead B.J.,
Parker R.L.,
Thornton I.G.,
Fletcher C.,
Cavers D.,
Coy P.,
Brigden M.L.
Publication year - 1993
Publication title -
journal of leukocyte biology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.819
H-Index - 191
eISSN - 1938-3673
pISSN - 0741-5400
DOI - 10.1002/jlb.54.4.360
Subject(s) - metastasis , biology , macrophage , immune system , paracrine signalling , extracellular matrix , cancer research , cancer cell , microbiology and biotechnology , metastatic breast cancer , cell , motility , immunology , cancer , breast cancer , in vitro , receptor , biochemistry , genetics
In human breast carcinomas tumor cells and macrophages are often proximal. We previously reported on the relationship between tumor cell growth and macrophage concentration and report here on the possible involvement of macrophages in the metastatic process. We hypothesize that during the initial stages of metastasis, tumor cells are likely to encounter macrophages and form aggregates. Using a cell culture method that encourages cellular interactions, we found aggregates involving macrophages. Macrophages partly or completely surround other cell types without any apparent ill effect. Units involving macrophages and tumor cells would possess many properties necessary for invasion, which is a normal process for macrophages. Properties such as motility and production of specific enzymes necessary to traverse the extracellular matrix, basement membrane, and endothelial cell barriers may provide an advantage for tumor cells. Physical support and protection from immune recognition during transport of the tumor cell through the vascular system may also be enhanced, and paracrine growth stimulation and angiogenic activity may be provided at the new metastatic site. Verification of these observations in vivo could lead to new directions for limiting breast cancer metastasis.