Dynamics of intercellular communication during melanoma development

Melanoma development involves processes determined collectively by various microenvironmental factors, among which intercellular communication has dra wn increased attention. Cell-cell crosstalk mediated by cadherins and conne xins results in coordinated regulation of cell growth, differentiation, apo ptosis and migration. Abnormal expression of adhesion receptors and dysregu lated intercellular communication appears to drive tumor development and pr ogression.