Altered extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling and intracellular signaling mediated by the integrin family of ECM receptors and their downstream kinase effectors, such as Focal Adhesion Kinase (FAK), have been proposed as important mechanisms influencing GBM pathogenesis, formation of the tumor niche, and brain tissue invasion [17]. The gene discussed is PTK2; the disease is glioblastoma.