TGFβ in der Entwicklung und Metastasierung von Karzinomen

Depending on conditions and tumor stage, the transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) can act either as tumor suppressor or as tumor promoter. One process by which TGFβ contributes to metastatic events is the epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT). This process results in de - differentiation of tumor cells, gain of migratory capability and increase of tumor cell survival in particular of detached tumor cells. In the last years multiple mechanisms have been described by which TGFβ mediates EMT in a variety of tumor entities.