Disrupted EV biogenesis in cancer cells by virtue of downregulation of Rab27a may have a cell-autonomous role in promoting EMT processes that promote primary tumor invasion and increase the initial seeding rate of metastases, whereas systemic factors regulated by Rab27a may be necessary to re-program pre-metastatic niche and facilitate long-term survival of metastatic lesions. The gene discussed is RAB27A; the disease is cancer.