Comparison of Molecular Adhesions (IMAGE) Salk Institute Caption Focal adhesion complexes (bright green) are typically large and sticky, anchoring a cell into place (left). When the gene DIXDC1 is knocked out, focal adhesion complexes instead become small and numerous, readying cancer cells to move into the bloodstream and become metastatic (right). Credit Salk Institute for Biological Studies Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.