Question

The most likely reason(s) a metastatic tumor cell might lose its connection to the basal lamina would be: a change in the integrin proteins from the cell's surface. a change in the cadherin proteins on the cell surface. a change in connexins disrupting gap junctions. All of these choices are correct.

Answer 1

A change in the integrin proteins from the cell's surface.

Step-by-step explanation:

Integrin proteins' principal function is to attach the cell to the basal lamina. Also, they transmit signals from the extracellular matrix to the interior of the cell. A change in the integrin could result in loss of connection between the mutated cell and the basal lamina.

Cadherin proteins connect one cell to another. A change in these proteins will not result in the loss of connection between the metastatic tumor cell and its extracellular matrix. It most likely will affect the communication and adhesion of cells.

A change in connexins will disrupt the communication between cells but not the connection to the lamina basal. Connexins are transmembrane proteins that connect one cell to another with gap junctions that allow the passage of different components from cell to cell.