Research status of self-seeding by circulating tumor cells in tumor progression

Self-seeding, a distinct biological behavior of circulating tumor cells (CTCs), is prevalent in many malignant tumors and closely linked to tumor progression. While most research focuses on the relationship between CTCs and distant metastasis, the understanding of the biological impact of CTCs self-seeding on tumor initiation and local progression remains limited. This article reviews the role of CTCs in tumor progression via self-seeding, providing a new perspective for exploring the mechanisms underlying malignant tumor development.