The SUMO System and TGFβ Signaling Interplay in Regulation of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition: Implications for Cancer Progression

Protein post-translational modification by the small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO), or SUMOylation, can regulate the stability, subcellular localization or interactome of a protein substrate with key consequences for cellular processes including the Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT). The secreted protein Transforming Growth Factor beta (TGF beta) is a potent inducer of EMT in development and homeostasis. Importantly, the ability of TGF beta to induce EMT has been implicated in promoting cancer invasion and metastasis, resistance to chemo/radio therapy, and maintenance of cancer stem cells. Interestingly, TGF beta-induced EMT and the SUMO system intersect with important implications for cancer formation and progression, and novel therapeutics identification.