Intermediate
Technical
IVT
invasion front
The leading edge of a tumor where cancer cells actively invade surrounding tissue.
Full Definition
The invasion front, also known as the invasive margin or tumor border, represents the leading edge of a tumor where cancer cells actively invade into surrounding normal tissue. This region is characterized by distinct molecular and cellular features including increased expression of matrix metalloproteinases, loss of cell adhesion molecules, and enhanced cellular motility. The invasion front is often the site of epithelial-mesenchymal transition and contains the most aggressive cancer cells. Histological examination of the invasion front provides important prognostic information.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from surgical resection margins in pathology reports.
In Context
- "Inflammatory infiltrate was prominent at the invasion front." — Pathology report
- "Gene expression analysis focused on cells from the invasion front." — Research methodology
Also known as
invasive margin
tumor border
invasive front
Contrasted with
tumor center
tumor core
Don't confuse with
tumor margin
resection margin