Dr Ghada Elayat looks at the role of epithelial–mesenchymal transition in cancer and the implications for melanoma development.
At a glance
- Phenotypic plasticity refers to the ability of organisms or cells to modify their traits in response to different surroundings.
- The progression of melanoma is associated with the dedifferentiation of the originating cell.
- Integrating innovative strategies offers promising prospects for delivering personalised medicine.
The concept of phenotypic plasticity has emerged as a significant aspect of cancer biology. Phenotypic plasticity, which refers to the ability of organisms or cells to modify their traits in response to different surroundings, is a widespread phenomenon in nature. This adaptability allows organisms to thrive in varying environments. In the context of cancer, phenotypic plasticity plays a crucial role in gene regulatory networks. Cancer cells employ similar mechanisms to adapt and survive within their dynamic microenvironment, especially during processes like metastasis and exposure to therapeutic treatments.
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Image Credit | Science Photolibrary
