metastasis pathways

Invasion / metastasis

EMT

Epithelial–mesenchymal plasticity, driven by TWIST/SNAIL/ZEB and TGF-β/Wnt/Notch inputs, reduces adhesion and increases motility and stem-like features.

Invasion / metastasis

Invasion

Invasion requires adhesion turnover, cytoskeletal protrusion and protease-mediated matrix remodelling (MMPs, uPA).

Invasion / metastasis

Metastasis

Metastasis is a cascade of local invasion, intravasation, survival in circulation, organ tropism, extravasation and colonization, shaped by pre-metastatic niches.

This oncology atlas is educational. Pathway maps, adjunctive strategies, and compound listings describe mechanistic relevance. They do not establish clinical efficacy, do not recommend treatment, and are not a substitute for oncology care. Evidence tiers are not equivalent.