The Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition at the Crossroads between Metabolism and Tumor Progression

The transition between epithelial and mesenchymal phenotype is emerging as a key determinant of tumor cell invasion and metastasis. It is a plastic process in which epithelial cells first acquire the ability to invade the extracellular matrix and migrate into the bloodstream via transdifferentiation into mesenchymal cells, a phenomenon known as epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and then reacquire the epithelial phenotype, the reverse process called mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET), to colonize a new organ. During all metastatic stages, metabolic changes, which give cancer cells the ability to adapt to increased energy demand and to withstand a hostile new environment, are also important determinants of successful cancer progression. In this review, we describe the complex interaction between EMT and metabolism during tumor progression. First, we outline the main connections between the two processes, with particular emphasis on the role of cancer stem cells and LncRNAs. Then, we focus on some specific cancers, such as breast, lung, and thyroid cancer.

Automated summary

The transition between epithelial and mesenchymal phenotype plays a key role in tumor cell invasion and metastasis. This process, known as epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and its reverse process called mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET), is closely associated with metabolic changes and successful cancer progression. This review focuses on the complex interaction between EMT and metabolism during tumor progression, with a particular emphasis on cancer stem cells and Long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs). Specific cancers such as breast, lung, and thyroid cancer are also discussed.