Macrophage-tumor cell associations: a factor in metastasis of breast cancer?

In human breast carcinomas tumor cells and macrophages are often proximal. We previously reported on the relationship between tumor cell growth and macrophage concentration and report here on the possible involvement of macrophages in the metastatic process. We hypothesize that during the initial st...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of leukocyte biology 1993-10, Vol.54 (4), p.360-362
Main Authors: Netten, J.P., Ashmead, B.J., Parker, R.L., Thornton, I.G., Fletcher, C., Cavers, D., Coy, P., Brigden, M.L.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Biological and medical sciences
breast carcinoma
Breast Neoplasms - pathology
Breast Neoplasms - physiopathology
Carcinoma, Ductal, Breast - pathology
Carcinoma, Ductal, Breast - physiopathology
Cell Communication
Cells, Cultured
cellular aggregates
Female
Gynecology. Andrology. Obstetrics
Humans
macrophages
Macrophages - cytology
Macrophages - physiology
Mammary gland diseases
Medical sciences
metastatic process
Neoplasm Metastasis
Tumor Cells, Cultured
Tumors
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Summary:In human breast carcinomas tumor cells and macrophages are often proximal. We previously reported on the relationship between tumor cell growth and macrophage concentration and report here on the possible involvement of macrophages in the metastatic process. We hypothesize that during the initial stages of metastasis, tumor cells are likely to encounter macrophages and form aggregates. Using a cell culture method that encourages cellular interactions, we found aggregates involving macrophages. Macrophages partly or completely surround other cell types without any apparent ill effect. Units involving macrophages and tumor cells would possess many properties necessary for invasion, which is a normal process for macrophages. Properties such as motility and production of specific enzymes necessary to traverse the extracellular matrix, basement membrane, and endothelial cell barriers may provide an advantage for tumor cells. Physical support and protection from immune recognition during transport of the tumor cell through the vascular system may also be enhanced, and paracrine growth stimulation and angiogenic activity may be provided at the new metastatic site. Verification of these observations in vivo could lead to new directions for limiting breast cancer metastasis.
ISSN:0741-5400
1938-3673
DOI:10.1002/jlb.54.4.360