METHOD FOR SUPPRESSING CANCER METASTASIS THROUGH ALTERATION OF ADHESION DEPENDENCE OF CANCER CELLS

Smart overview of the Invention

The disclosed method focuses on suppressing cancer metastasis by targeting the adhesion dependence of cancer cells. It identifies specific genes that influence whether cancer cells adhere to or detach from their surrounding matrix, which is crucial in the formation of circulating tumor cells (CTCs). By regulating these genes, the method aims to prevent the production and spread of CTCs, thereby reducing cancer mortality rates.

Technical Field

This innovation addresses the challenge of inhibiting cancer metastasis through gene regulation. By altering the expression of genes that dictate cell adhesion properties, it seeks to prevent CTC formation, a key step in metastasis. This approach provides a novel target for cancer treatment beyond traditional methods focusing solely on primary tumors.

Background

Cancer metastasis is responsible for over 90% of cancer-related deaths. Traditional theories like EMT/MET and cancer stem cells have been explored but show limitations. Recent findings suggest that E-cadherin, an EMT marker, enhances CTC survival. The inventors propose a new mechanism focusing on genes that confer anoikis resistance to CTCs, distinguishing them from primary tumor cells.

Technical Solution

The invention identifies 20 specific genes whose expression determines whether cells exhibit suspension or adhesion phenotypes. Inhibiting these genes can transform suspension cells into adherent ones, thereby reducing CTC formation and metastasis. The solution involves using various gene expression inhibitors such as shRNA, siRNA, miRNA, and CRISPR systems to achieve this gene regulation.

Applications

• Cancer Treatment: Development of compositions containing inhibitors targeting the identified genes to treat or prevent cancer.
• Cancer Diagnosis: Use in diagnostic compositions for detecting metastasis or recurrence.
• Screening Compositions: Methods for screening potential therapeutic agents targeting these genes.