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Updated: May 31, 2026

Induction of Mesenchymal-Epithelial Transitions in Sarcoma Cells
Published on: April 7, 2017
[Epithelial-mesenchymal transition and tumor metastasis]
Rongzhi Zhao1, Zhihao Wu, Qinghua Zhou
1Tianjin Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China.
Abstract:
Metastasis is the transfer of malignant tumors from one organ to a distant organ. It is the most common cause of death in cancer patients. Different molecular mechanisms enable tumor cells to infiltrate the surrounding tissue, invade blood vessels and leave the blood stream at a different site. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is critical for appropriate embryonic development, and this process is re-engaged in adults during wound healing, tissue regeneration, organ fibrosis, and cancer progression. EMT is the first step in tumor invasion and metastasis. A detailed knowledge of the molecular requirements for EMT in human cancer will help us to better understand tumor progression and to delineate more effective strategies for future therapeutic intervention.
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