METHOD OF MODULATING CELL DIFFERENTIATION OR NEOPLASTIC TRANSFORMATION BY ALTERING CADHERIN-11 EXPRESSION OR FUNCTION

摘要

A method of modulating differentiation or neoplastic transformation of cells is provided in which the cells are caused to increase or decrease cad-11 expression or function. Such method has application in affecting differentiation or neoplastic transformation of cells, preventing or terminating pregnancy by altering cad-11 function or expression in trophoblast cells, or for reducing the viability of carcinoma cells having a low to moderate metastatic potential. The use of agents which increase or decrease cad-11 expression or function is also provided, including such use for preparation of medicaments for modulating differentiation or neoplastic transformation of cells. A method for assessing the metastatic potential of carcinoma cells is also provided.