"Metastatic cells" refers to cancer cells that have spread from their original site to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or the lymphatic system. Full definition
After imaging defiant metastatic cells in the brains of mice, researchers noticed that the cells that were able to survive grew on top of blood capillaries, each cell sticking closely to its vessel «like a panda bear hugging a tree trunk,» Dr. Massagué says. (sciencedaily.com)
High levels of the protein were also found in cultures of metastatic cells from tumours of the colon, breast, head and neck. (newscientist.com)
Investigators from Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and the Harvard Stem Cell Institute have developed an imageable mouse model of brain - metastatic breast cancer and shown the potential of a stem - cell - based therapy to eliminate metastatic cells from the brain and prolong survival. (sciencedaily.com)