Human cells can possibly sense far beyond surfaces they touch, with cancer cells being able to probe about 10 microns ahead, and normal epithelial cells -- those on the skin surface and lining cavities -- detecting layers up to 100 microns away, according to a new study. The long-range sensing helps a cell decide where to move to, scientists from Washington University in St. Louis, US, said, adding that the understanding may help reveal new ways to slow and prevent cancer cells from spreading. Until recently, the remarkable ability was mostly linked to unusual cells such as cancer cells, they said. Findings published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) show that ordinary cells can achieve a similar feat when they work together. Amit Pathak, a professor of mechanical engineering and materials science at Washington University's school of engineering, studied how cells interact with the physical properties of the surroundings. He explained that the .