The metastatic process is characterized by a complex series of sequential steps involving constant interactions (mutual "cross-talks") of metastasized tumor cells with their microenvironment (lymphocyte, macrophages, endothelial cells, etc.) in target organs. These interactions determine the outcome of metastasis (either the eradication of metastatic cells or their increased proliferation and invasion). Recently developed methods of tumor and host cell analysis at the molecular level allow better elucidation of molecular mechanisms of metastasis and of immune mechanisms involved in antitumor responses. Direct modulation of these processes will probably increase the success of clinical cancer treatment. Here we review data (a) on the expression of some costimulatory (MHC class II, CD80, sialoadhesin) and adhesion (LFA-1, ICAM-1, VLA-4) molecules on both metastasized tumor cells and host cells and (b) on the production of a cytotoxic molecule, nitric oxide, by in situ activated Kupffer and endothelial cells in the process of liver metastasis. This study was performed with well-characterized murine ESbL T lymphoma cells transduced with the bacterial lacZ gene, which allows detection and quantification of metastases at the single cell level throughout lymphoma growth and metastasis. Experimental results are discussed in the context of recent literature.