Elevated expression of the metastasis gene metadherin (MTDH), which is overexpressed in more than 40% of breast cancers, is associated with poor clinical outcomes. MTDH has a dual role in promoting metastatic seeding and enhancing chemoresistance.

MTDH is therefore a potential therapeutic target for enhancing chemotherapy and reducing metastasis. Widely expressed with highest levels in muscle-dominating organs such as skeletal muscle, heart, tongue and small intestine and in endocrine glands such as thyroid and adrenal gland. Overexpressed in various cancers including breast, brain, prostate, melanoma and glioblastoma multiforme.