Over-expression of the bone metastasis specific gene set (named genes encoding C-X-C chemokine receptor [CXCR]4, IL-11, connective tissue growth factor, and matrix metalloproteinase [MMP]-1), along with the osteopontin gene and five genes members of FGF receptor pathway (FGF5, SOS1, DUSP1, FGFR3, and DUSP4) in various combinations, considerably enhanced the metastatic potential of breast cancer cells to bone. The gene discussed is IL11; the disease is breast cancer.