Squeezing through tiny blood vessels may trigger melanoma metastasis
Squeezing through tiny blood vessels may trigger melanoma metastasis, a study suggests.
Why it matters
- Metastasis is deadly in most cancers.
- Finding could aid treatment.
By the numbers
- 9 of 10 common cancer deaths in Australia are due to solid tumors.
- Channels narrower than 10 micrometres (1/5 width of human hair) cause cell changes.
The big picture
- Supports theory that pressure in blood vessels makes cancer aggressive.
- Could lead to new prevention strategies.
What they're saying
- Study backs long-held theory on pressure and cancer aggression.
- Piezo1 channel noted for its broad involvement.
Caveats
- Lab/mice studies only so far.
What’s next
- More microfluidics work planned.