Measuring and Modelling the Epithelial- Mesenchymal Hybrid State in Cancer: Clinical Implications

The epithelial-mesenchymal (E/M) hybrid state has emerged as an important mediator of elements of cancer progression, facilitated by epithelial mesenchymal plasticity (EMP). We review here evidence for the presence, prognostic significance, and therapeutic potential of the E/M hybrid state in carcinoma. We further assess modelling predictions and validation studies to demonstrate stabilised E/M hybrid states along the spectrum of EMP, as well as computational approaches for characterising and quantifying EMP phenotypes, with particular attention to the emerging realm of single-cell approaches through RNA sequencing and protein-based techniques.

Automated summary

The epithelial-mesenchymal (E/M) hybrid state plays a significant role in cancer progression, facilitated by epithelial mesenchymal plasticity (EMP). Modeling and validation studies have shown the stabilised E/M hybrid states across the spectrum of EMP, along with computational approaches for characterising EMP phenotypes.