Zhao Rongzhi, Wu Zhihao, Zhou Qinghua
Tianjin Lung Cancer Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China.
Zhongguo Fei Ai Za Zhi. 2011 Jul;14(7):620-4. doi: 10.3779/j.issn.1009-3419.2011.07.11.
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.
转移是指恶性肿瘤从一个器官转移至远处器官。它是癌症患者最常见的死亡原因。不同的分子机制使肿瘤细胞能够浸润周围组织、侵入血管并在不同部位离开血流。上皮-间质转化（EMT）对胚胎的正常发育至关重要，并且在成人伤口愈合、组织再生、器官纤维化和癌症进展过程中该过程会重新启动。EMT是肿瘤侵袭和转移的第一步。深入了解人类癌症中EMT的分子需求将有助于我们更好地理解肿瘤进展，并为未来的治疗干预制定更有效的策略。
