[The importance of lectins for formation of tumor metastases and bacterial infection processes]

Abstract

Adhesion of bacteria and adhesion of tumor cells have much in common, especially the participation of lectins in this process. In the future it might be possible to inhibit the metastatic process into the liver (e.g. during surgical operations of malignant tumors) and bacterial adherence to mucosal linings or plastic devices by blocking of adhesion molecules (lectins) with appropriate glycoconjugates. Initial clinical trials are very promising.