The enhanced invasiveness is associated with the activity of tumor cell matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, increased expression of MMP-1 mRNA, changes in urokinase plasminogen activator expression, cell adhesion molecule E-cadherin deficiency and the increased expression of hyaluronic acid receptor, CD44, on the cellular surface of tumor invasion and metastasis molecules. The gene discussed is CD44; the disease is neoplasm.