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Related Concept Videos

Stem Cell Niche01:26

Stem Cell Niche

The stem cell niche is the dynamic microenvironment where stem cells reside. Inside these niches, the cells may remain undifferentiated, undergo high self-renewal, or become lineage-specific progenitors. Stem cells coexist with other niche cells, such as stromal cells. They also interact closely with the ECM. Cell-cell and cell-matrix communication occur via adhesion molecules or soluble factors that signal the stem cells and determine their fate. Stromal cells also provide survival signals to...
The Tumor Microenvironment02:17

The Tumor Microenvironment

Every normal cell or tissue is embedded in a complex local environment called stroma, consisting of different cell types, a basal membrane, and blood vessels. As normal cells mutate and develop into cancer cells, their local environment also changes to allow cancer progression. The tumor microenvironment (TME) consists of a complex cellular matrix of stromal cells and the developing tumor. The cross-talk between cancer cells and surrounding stromal cells is critical to disrupt normal tissue...
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Metastasis is the spread of cancer cells from the original site to distant locations in the body. Cancer cells can spread via blood vessels (hematogenous) as well as lymph vessels in the body.
Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition
The epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition or EMT is a developmental process commonly observed in wound healing, embryogenesis, and cancer metastasis. EMT is induced by transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) or receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) ligands, which further...
Cell Migration01:19

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Cell migration is a process by which the cells move from one location to another, playing an essential role in embryological development, repair and regeneration, immune response, and metastasis. Cells migrate in response to chemical or mechanical signals generated by specific organs or tissues. The overall mechanism includes three steps - polarization, protrusion, and release. Polarization involves the formation of a distinct cell front and rear, which determines the direction of movement.
Epithelial Tissues and Their Functions01:23

Epithelial Tissues and Their Functions

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Induction of Mesenchymal-Epithelial Transitions in Sarcoma Cells
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Epithelial transition zones: merging microenvironments, niches, and cellular transformation.

Adrian J Mcnairn1, Géraldine Guasch

  • 1Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA.

European Journal of Dermatology : EJD
|June 2, 2011
PubMed
Summary

Transition zones (TZs) are unique body regions where epithelial tissues meet. These areas, susceptible to cancer, may serve as stem cell niches, facilitating cellular transformation and tumor formation.

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Area of Science:

  • Histology
  • Oncology
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • Transition zones (TZs) are anatomical sites where two distinct epithelial tissues converge.
  • These regions exhibit unique cellular morphology and signaling environments.
  • Several TZs are implicated in cancer development, including those associated with human papilloma virus (HPV).

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the molecular and cellular underpinnings of tumor susceptibility in transition zones.
  • To explore the potential of TZs as stem cell niches.
  • To understand the pre-lesional characteristics of TZ epithelium.

Main Methods:

  • Comparative analysis of epithelial tissues at various transition zones.
  • Molecular profiling to identify unique signaling cues and cell surface markers.
  • Assessment of protein expression related to wounding and stem cell markers.

Main Results:

  • TZs display distinct epithelial properties due to their unique location and signaling.
  • Proteins typically induced during wounding are expressed in TZs, resembling pre-lesional states.
  • TZs may function as stem cell niches, promoting cellular transformation.

Conclusions:

  • The unique environment of TZs contributes to their susceptibility to cancer.
  • TZs represent critical sites for tumor initiation through genetic or viral transformation.
  • Further research into TZ biology is crucial for understanding and preventing associated cancers.