Caveolae are non-clathrin invaginations of the plasma membrane in most cell 
types; they are involved in signalling functions and molecule trafficking, thus 
modulating several biological functions, including cell growth, apoptosis and 
angiogenesis. The major structural protein in caveolae is caveolin-1, which is 
known to act as a key regulator in cancer onset and progression through its role 
as a tumour suppressor. Caveolin-1 can also promote cell proliferation, survival 
and metastasis as well as chemo- and radioresistance. Here, we discuss recent 
findings and novel concepts that support a role for caveolin-1 in cancer 
development and its distant spreading. We also address the potential application 
of caveolin-1 in tumour therapy and diagnosis.