Early Stage of Metastasis (IMAGE)
Caption
This is an illustration of the early stage of metastasis, called "intravasation." Tumor cells (blue) in contact with the bloodstream experience shear forces that can be strong enough to exceed the adhesion forces keeping them attached to the primary tumor. Once released into the bloodstream, they become circulating tumor cells capable of spreading the disease to other sites.
Credit
The University of Southern California, Oregon Health and Science University, and the Scripps Research Institute
Usage Restrictions
With credit
License
Licensed content