The basics of epithelial-mesenchymal transition
Raghu Kalluri, Robert A. Weinberg
Raghu Kalluri, Robert A. Weinberg
Published June 1, 2009
Citation Information: J Clin Invest. 2009;119(6):1420-1428. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI39104.
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The basics of epithelial-mesenchymal transition

Abstract

The origins of the mesenchymal cells participating in tissue repair and pathological processes, notably tissue fibrosis, tumor invasiveness, and metastasis, are poorly understood. However, emerging evidence suggests that epithelial-mesenchymal transitions (EMTs) represent one important source of these cells. As we discuss here, processes similar to the EMTs associated with embryo implantation, embryogenesis, and organ development are appropriated and subverted by chronically inflamed tissues and neoplasias. The identification of the signaling pathways that lead to activation of EMT programs during these disease processes is providing new insights into the plasticity of cellular phenotypes and possible therapeutic interventions.

Authors

Raghu Kalluri, Robert A. Weinberg

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Figure 3

EMT and fibrosis.

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EMT and fibrosis. The EMTs associated with fibrosis are associated with ...
The EMTs associated with fibrosis are associated with inflammation and the generation of numerous types of molecules by inflammatory cells and resident activated fibroblasts (myofibroblasts). These molecules cause disruption of the epithelial layers via degradation of the basement membrane. The epithelial cells lose polarity and either undergo apoptosis (the majority of cells) or EMT (the minority of cells). MCP1, monocyte chemoattractant protein 1.