Role of lysosomes in tumorigenesis and metastasis

<p indent="0mm">Lysosomes are crucial for the main metabolic activities within cells, and their dysfunction is linked to various diseases. However, the association between lysosomes and tumor metastasis remains unclear. Tumor metastasis involves escape from the primary tumor site, local invasion, intravasation into circulation, survival in the systemic circulation, extravasation to distant organs, and colonization and growth at secondary tumor sites. Over 90% of cancer-related deaths are attributed to metastasis to distant target organs. The significance of lysosomes in metastasis has been highlighted; however, its underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This review examines the role and mechanisms of lysosomes in tumorigenesis and metastasis and provides insights for targeted therapeutic strategies aiming at lysosomes in cancer prevention and treatment.