Molecular and pathological signatures of epithelial-mesenchymal transitions at the cancer invasion front.
Reduction of epithelial cell-cell adhesion via the transcriptional repression of cadherins in combination with the acquisition of mesenchymal properties are key determinants of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). EMT is associated with early stages of carcinogenesis, cancer invasion and recurrence. Furthermore, the tumor stroma dictates EMT through intensive bidirectional communication. The pathological analysis of EMT signatures is critically, especially to determine the presence of cancer cells at the resection margins of a tumor. When diffusion barriers disappear, EMT markers may be detected in sera from cancer patients. The detection of EMT signatures is not only important for diagnosis but can also be exploited to enhance classical chemotherapy treatments. In conclusion, further detailed understanding of the contextual cues and molecular mediators that control EMT will be required in order to develop diagnostic tools and small molecule inhibitors with potential clinical implications.
De Wever
Olivier
O
Laboratory of Experimental Cancer Research, Department of Radiotherapy and Nuclear Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium. olivier.dewever@UGent.be
Pauwels
Patrick
P
De Craene
Bram
B
Sabbah
Michèle
M
Emami
Shahin
S
Redeuilh
Gérard
G
Gespach
Christian
C
Bracke
Marc
M
Berx
Geert
G
D000818:Animals; D001826:Body Fluids; D002454:Cell Differentiation; D004847:Epithelial Cells / Q000166:cytology* / Q000378:metabolism*; D005110:Extracellular Space / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D059630:Mesenchymal Stem Cells / Q000166:cytology* / Q000378:metabolism*; D009361:Neoplasm Invasiveness / Q000473:pathology*