Ninety percent of cancer deaths resulted from metastasis, the spread of cancer to different areas in the body, yet scientific exploration of the possible mechanical factors that promote metastasis has been limited. Karen A. Beningo, assistant professor of biology in WSU\'s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, has found that the continuous restructuring of the extracellular matrix that upholds the weight of a tumor is one of the reasons highly invasive, malignant tumors are mechanically able to spread to other parts of the body. \"This study has identified a novel physical parameter and a new conceptual framework in which to assess the process of invasion, not just of cancer cells but other invasive cell types as well,\" said Beningo.

http://www.news-medical.net/news/20110323/Study-finds-novel-physical-mechanism-behind-cancer-migration.aspx
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/03/110322151412.htm