Natural history of hepatic metastases from colorectal cancer - pathobiological pathways with clinical significance

Core Tip

Core tip: The multi-step process of colorectal hepatic metastases includes numerous molecular pathways and cellular interactions with potential clinical interest. Mutations at the initial site of colorectal carcinogenesis, such as p53 and APC, neoplastic cell interrelationship with the stromal macrophages, neoangiogenesis through growth factors, such as the vascular endothelial growth factor and platelet-derived growth factor, the role of hepatic sinusoidal cells, such as Kupffer cells, the expression of adhesion molecules, including the selectins and the integrins, are all crucial stages/events within the metastatic process. The exploration and analysis of recent research data may contribute to a better understanding of their clinical significance and may lead to new therapeutic strategies.