In order for a tumor cell to metastasize, which of the following would you expect to happen?
A)a decrease in cadherin expression and an increase of integrin expression
B)an increase of cadherin expression and a decrease in integrin expression
C)an increase in both cadherin and integrin expression
D)a decrease in both cadherin and integrin expression

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Cadherins are involved in cell-cell adhesion, and integrins are involved in cell-matrix adhesion. In order for a tumor cell to metastasize, it needs to detach from its original location and invade surrounding tissues, which requires breaking down cell-cell adhesion. Therefore, a decrease in cadherin expression would be expected. On the other hand, the tumor cell needs to adhere to and interact with the extracellular matrix of surrounding tissues in order to invade and metastasize. Therefore, an increase in integrin expression would be expected.

In Order for a Tumor Cell to Metastasize, Which of the Following