Review Articles

2018  |  Vol: 4(6)  |  Issue: 6 (November-December)  |  https://doi.org/10.31024/ajpp.2018.4.6.1

Molecular signatures of epithelial-mesenchymal transition and their role in cancer progression

Aleema Ansari¹, Adria Hasan¹, Ejazul Haque², Safia Irfan², Snober S. Mir^1*

¹Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Integral University, Kursi Road, Lucknow, 226026, India

²Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Integral University, Kursi Road, Lucknow, 226026, India

*Address for Corresponding Author

Dr. Snober S. Mir

Department of Bioengineering,

Faculty of Engineering, Integral University, Kursi Road,

Lucknow, 226026, Uttar Pradesh, India

Abstract

The differentiation of epithelial cells to mesenchymal cells is known as epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) which plays a significant role in embryo and organ development, wound healing and tissue regeneration. Off late, EMT has emerged as a major factor contributing towards cancer metastasis. Cancer metastasis is a key challenge faced during the treatment of cancer. Apart from promoting cancer, EMT is also considered as a factor helping in the generation of cancer stem cells which can eventually lead to drug resistance making EMT a potential target in anticancer therapies. In this review, we highlight the different types of EMT, biomarkers of EMT which could be targeted to halt the EMT process which may provide new hope in cancer treatment.

Keywords: Epithelial-mesenchymal transition, cancer, biomarkers, metastasis