what are the molecules associated with invasion and metastasis?

Answer 1

Many molecules are involved in invasion and metastasis. Cadherins, Adhesion molecules, Metallomatrix proteins, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors (VEGFs), and many others, 'pave the way' for the spread of cancer cells.

Answer 2

Invasion and metastases do not occur on the molecular level. They occur on the cellular level. Molecules alone are not cancer and they do not become cancers. Invasion occurs when a cell loses it's control over mitosis and continually divides and replicates such that it creates a mass that intrudes into other surrounding areas. Metastases occurs when such a cell breaks off from its origin (the primary) and travels via bloodstream or other means and lodges itself in another organ.