Cells at the centre of the tumour express beta-catenin at the plasmamembrane, whereas cells at the invasivefront express beta-catenin in the nucleus, which induces expression of EMT genes.
Describe the role of src in EMT
Increased src activity results in disruption of cell to celladhesions, which facilitates invasive growth. In invading tumour cells, src regulates the assembly and turnover of focaladhesions, which are critical in cell migration. Inhibition of src reduces tumour cell invasion and delays dissemination.
What is desmoplasia?
Excessivefibrous tissue formation in response to a tumor. This is strongly linked to poor patient prognosis.