Bidirectional role of peritoneal mesothelial cells during peritoneal metastasis
Peritoneum is a common metastatic site of such abdominopelvic tumors as gastric cancer,colorectal cancer and ovarian cancer.The occurrence of peritoneal metastasis often hints at a poor prognosis.Thus it is imperative to elucidate the underlying mechanism of peritoneal metastasis."Seed and Soil"theory,as a core theoretical basis of peritoneal metastasis,and peritoneal mesothelial cells(PMCs),as the most important cellular component in"soil",have received growing attention from academic circles.Previously monolayer of PMCs has been treated as an important line of defense against tumor cells.New ideas have suggested that PMCs may promote peritoneal metastasis under certain conditions.This review summarized diverse biological functions of PMCs in various states.Maintaining the barrier function of PMCs is vital for managing peritoneal metastasis.