Mechanism Study Service for Metastatic Bladder Cancer
Metastatic bladder cancer is a dreaded disease characterized by the spread of cancer cells from the bladder to distant organs. Understanding the mechanisms by which bladder cancer metastasizes to specific sites is critical to developing effective therapeutics. At Alfa Cytology, we offer specialized mechanistic research services to study the complex process by which bladder cancer metastasizes to the lymph nodes, lungs, liver and bones.
Introduction to Metastatic Bladder Cancer
Bladder cancer is the most common malignant tumor of the urinary tract. As the malignancy progresses, tumors located in the bladder epithelium metastasize to the urethral muscles and, more likely, to the lymph nodes or other organs. Of these, lymph node (LN) metastases accounted for the majority. Understanding the underlying mechanisms of metastasis is essential for developing effective treatment strategies against metastatic bladder cancer and improving prognosis.
Fig 1. The distribution of metastatic sites in patients with bladder cancer. (Bianchi M., et al. 2014)
| Metastasis Mechanism |
Description |
| Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) |
EMT is driven by signaling pathways such as TGF-β, Wnt/β-catenin and Notch, resulting in epithelial cells losing intercellular adhesion and acquiring a mesenchymal phenotype that allows them to migrate and invade surrounding tissues. |
| Angiogenesis |
Formation of new blood vessels crucial for tumor growth and metastasis. VEGF and its receptors play a key role in bladder cancer angiogenesis. Increased expression of VEGF and pro-angiogenic factors promotes blood vessel formation, supporting tumor growth and facilitating the spread of cancer cells to distant organs. |
| Extracellular Matrix (ECM) Remodeling |
Bladder cancer cells secrete enzymes including MMPs, particularly MMP-2 and MMP-9, which degrade the ECM, thereby allowing the cancer cells to invade surrounding tissues and spread in the bloodstream or lymphatics, contributing to the formation of metastatic lesions. |
| Immune Evasion |
Bladder cancer cells use a variety of mechanisms to evade immune surveillance and promote metastasis. For example, they create an immunosuppressive microenvironment by down-regulating MHC molecules and secreting immunosuppressive factors, which promotes the survival and spread of metastatic bladder cancer cells. |
| Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCs) and Dormancy |
Disseminated tumor cells can enter the bloodstream and form micrometastases. However, not all cells establish metastatic lesions. Disseminated tumor cells can enter the bloodstream and form micro metastases. The mechanisms underlying dormancy and reactivation involve interactions with the metastatic microenvironment, including angiogenic switch, immune system modulation, and interactions with stromal cells. |
Our Services
Alfa Cytology, a leading provider of preclinical CRO services in the field of bladder cancer, offers a wide range of mechanism study services to unravel the intricate processes involved in lymph node, lung, liver, and bone metastasis.
| Lymph Node Metastatic Bladder Cancer |
Lung Metastatic Bladder Cancer |
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| Liver Metastatic Bladder Cancer |
Bone Metastatic Bladder Cancer |
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Contact Us
At Alfa Cytology, we are committed to providing comprehensive preclinical CRO services to support researchers and clinicians in their efforts to understand and overcome metastatic bladder cancer. We offer a comprehensive range of services designed to investigate the underlying mechanisms driving bladder cancer metastasis, identify potential therapeutic targets, and accelerate the development of effective therapy. If you have any needs, please contact us today.
Reference
- Bianchi M., Roghmann F., and et al. Age-stratified distribution of metastatic sites in bladder cancer: A population-based analysis. Can Urol Assoc J. 2014, 8(3-4): E148-58.
For research use only. Not intended for any clinical use.
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