E-cadherin complex and its abnormalities in human breast cancer

E-cadherin and its adhesion complex play an essential role in the adhesion of breast cancer cells and tissues. Members of the complex, such as beta -c atenin, act as regulators on cell adhesion, and are involved in cell signal ling and transcription regulation. The adhesion complex is a known structur e in the control of tumour progression and metastasis. Recent years have se en a rapid expansion in the understanding of the biology and clinical relev ance of the complex in breast cancer. The current article summarises recent progresses in the molecular/cellular biology of E-cadherin and its complex and the clinical, diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic value of this co mplex in breast cancer. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.