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Updated: May 29, 2026
07:47
Multiomics Analysis of TMEM200A as a Pan-Cancer Biomarker
Published on: September 15, 2023
EMT and oxidative stress: a bidirectional interplay affecting tumor malignancy
Elisa Giannoni1, Matteo Parri, Paola Chiarugi
1Department of Biochemical Sciences, University of Florence, Tuscany Tumor Institute, and Center for Research, Transfer and High Education DenoTHE, Florence, Italy. paola.chiarugi@unifi.it
Antioxidants & Redox Signaling
|September 21, 2011
Summary
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) drive tumor malignancy by promoting epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). A pro-oxidant tumor microenvironment enhances cancer cell invasion, stemness, and metastasis.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a key process in tumor progression.
- Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are increasingly recognized as critical factors in EMT.
- Diverse signals, including soluble factors and extracellular matrix components, can induce EMT.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of redox control in EMT.
- To highlight the importance of a pro-oxidant environment in tumor malignancy.
- To discuss the tumor microenvironment's influence on EMT.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on EMT, ROS, and tumor microenvironment.
- Analysis of emerging views on redox control of EMT.
- Synthesis of current knowledge on cancer-associated fibroblasts, macrophages, and hypoxia in EMT.
Main Results:
- A pro-oxidant environment in cancer and stromal cells promotes tumor malignancy.
- The tumor microenvironment, involving fibroblasts, macrophages, and hypoxia, drives EMT, invasiveness, stemness, and metastasis.
- ROS are crucial conspirators in EMT engagement.
Conclusions:
- EMT enables cancer cells to invade and metastasize.
- Future research should clarify the roles of mesenchymal-epithelial transition and mesenchymal-amoeboid transition.
- Understanding the link between stemness, EMT, and ROS is crucial.
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