Cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) are crucial in the regulation of cell-cell and cell-ECM interactions. In the context of metastasis, changes in the expression and function of CAMs such as E-cadherin and integrins are pivotal. Loss of E-cadherin, for instance, reduces cell-cell adhesion, which facilitates detachment from the primary tumor. Integrins, on the other hand, mediate interactions with the ECM and are involved in signaling pathways that promote cell survival, migration, and invasion.
