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Epithelial-mesenchymal dynamics in cancer: Role of signalling pathways, stromal interactions and natural therapies

Iram Khan1, Anindita Behera2, Kamesh R Babu3

  • 1Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Health Sciences and Technology, UPES, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India.

ADMET & DMPK
|December 1, 2025
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

This review explores how epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) drives cancer metastasis and drug resistance. It highlights natural compounds from plants, animals, and marine sources that can target EMT pathways for cancer therapy.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and its reverse (MET) are vital in development and disease.
  • Dysregulation of EMT/MET pathways in cancer promotes metastasis and drug resistance.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review signaling pathways correlated with EMT in cancer.
  • To investigate therapeutic potential of natural compounds in modulating EMT.
  • To discuss the role of MET in metastasis and p53's impact on EMT.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of signaling pathways involved in EMT.
  • Analysis of naturally occurring compounds (plant, animal, marine) targeting EMT.
  • Examination of the relationship between stromal cells, drug resistance, and EMT.

Main Results:

  • Identified various plant-derived compounds (e.g., from Panax ginseng) with anti-EMT potential.
  • Highlighted animal-derived substances (e.g., bee venom) and marine compounds (e.g., eribulin) with anti-metastatic effects.
  • Emphasized MET's role in stabilizing metastasis and p53's influence on EMT.

Conclusions:

  • Diverse therapeutic molecules show promise for targeted anti-EMT strategies in cancer.
  • Natural compounds offer potential for novel cancer treatments by modulating EMT.
Keywords:
Epithelial-mesenchymal transitiondrug resistancemetastasisoncogenesistherapeutic molecules

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