Module 2: Understanding Cancer Metastasis
A deep dive into the complex process of cancer metastasis, from molecular mechanisms to clinical applications and therapeutic strategies.
Introduction to Metastasis
Understanding the fundamental concepts, clinical significance, and devastating impact of cancer metastasis on patient outcomes.
The Metastatic Cascade
A detailed exploration of the 8-step process that cancer cells must complete to successfully metastasize.
Molecular Mechanisms of Metastasis
Understanding the key biological processes that enable cancer spread: EMT, angiogenesis, immune evasion, and dormancy.
Neoangiogenesis: Fueling Tumor Growth
How tumors build their blood supply through new vessel formation and the implications for growth and metastasis.
The Tumor Microenvironment
Exploring the complex cellular ecosystem surrounding tumors and how different cell types influence cancer progression.
EMT, Invasion & Intravasation
How cancer cells transition from epithelial to mesenchymal states, invade surrounding tissues, and enter blood/lymphatic vessels.
Circulation Survival & Extravasation
How CTCs survive the hostile circulation environment and successfully exit to establish metastases through homing mechanisms.
Organ-Specific Metastasis
Exploring why different cancers preferentially metastasize to specific organs and the "seed and soil" hypothesis.
Dormancy & Secondary Tumor Growth
Understanding cancer dormancy, why patients relapse years after treatment, and the mechanisms of metastatic reactivation.
Morbidity & Mortality
How cancer hurts and kills patients through organ-specific effects and systemic cancer poison syndromes.
Clinical Case Studies
Real-world examples of metastatic progression, illustrating key concepts through patient stories and outcomes.
Therapeutic Strategies
Current and emerging approaches to prevent and treat metastasis, from early detection to targeted interventions.
Module 2 Knowledge Check
Test your comprehensive understanding of cancer metastasis concepts, mechanisms, and clinical applications.