Whether and where cancer spreads depends on more than tumor genes, including non-genetic factors.
See the scientific wording
In cancer, metastatic success—defined as whether and where metastases form—is influenced by non-genetic factors in addition to tumor genetics.
Not tested yet
Randomized trialsNo study measured the main part of this claim. No part of this claim has been tested yet.
Not tested yet
No study measured the main part of this claim. No part of this claim has been tested yet.
Parts of this claim
Non-genetic factors in cancer influence metastatic success.
Not testedNo studiesMetastatic success depends on more than tumor genetics.
Not testedNo studiesNon-genetic factors in cancer influence whether metastases form.
Not testedNo studiesNon-genetic factors in cancer influence where metastases form.
Not testedNo studies
Evidence is judged against each part on its own, so a study that tests one part never counts as a verdict on the whole claim.
What the research says
3 studies reviewedSupporting (3)
Tumour exosome integrins determine organotropic metastasis
Systematic ReviewReview
Cancer spread isn't just about genes—tiny particles from tumours can help decide where cancer goes, and this study shows that.
The bone microenvironment invigorates metastatic seeds for further dissemination
Randomized Controlled TrialAnimal2021
This study shows that cancer spread is not just about tumor genes; the environment around the cancer, like bone tissue, can reprogram cancer cells to spread further. That supports the idea that non-genetic factors help determine whether and where cancer spreads.
Metabolic matching shapes organ-specific metastasis.
Narrative ReviewReview
This review explains that cancer spread isn't just about tumor genes—things like nutrients, oxygen balance, and the surrounding organ environment also matter for where cancer can grow. That matches the claim.
Contradicting (0)
No contradicting studies found yet
That doesn't mean it's settled — it just means no study has tested the opposite.
Quality-weighted scoring: we follow the GRADE framework — each study is rated High, Moderate, Low, or Very Low based on study design, methodology rigor, and risk of bias. A single high-quality RCT can outweigh several weaker observational studies.
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Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 3 supporting studies
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