Understanding of ovarian cancer has increased, with the recognition of epithelial mesenchymal transition, (EMT), which develops in about 50%. EMT results in loss of adhesion with disruption of the normal tissue structure. Metastasis is inevitable with EMT, the cancer is more aggressive, and survival is worse.
This review of the available literature describes the process which leads to EMT together with information about the significance and possible treatment.
EMT occurs because of epigenetic change to the chromosome of the cancer cell, it does not involve genetic mutation. Epigenetic change may involve cross linking and folding of cancer cell DNA and is potentially reversible.
EMT is a response to the environment, it may be due to low oxygen or glucose levels, mechanical stress or chemo effects. Previously it was thought to be a binary “all or nothing” change but now is described as partial with various degrees of penetration. It seems that partial EMT is more lethal. Understanding of EMT will lead to better-targeted personalised care.
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