Integrins are pivotal in the process of metastasis, which involves the spread of cancer cells from the primary tumor to distant organs. They facilitate cancer cell detachment from the primary tumor, migration through the ECM, and invasion into surrounding tissues. Integrins also mediate the intravasation of cancer cells into the bloodstream and their extravasation into secondary sites. Specific integrins, such as αvβ3 and α6β4, have been shown to enhance metastatic potential by interacting with ECM components and activating signaling pathways that promote cell motility and survival.
