Abstract
Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a central mechanism for diversifying the cells found in complex tissues. This dynamic process helps organize the formation of the body plan, and while EMT is well studied in the context of embryonic development, it also plays a role in the genesis of fibroblasts during organ fibrosis in adult tissues. Emerging evidence from studies of renal fibrosis suggests that more than a third of all disease-related fibroblasts originate from tubular epithelia at the site of injury. This review highlights recent advances in the process of EMT signaling in health and disease and how it may be attenuated or reversed by selective cytokines and growth factors.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 1776-1784 |
Number of pages | 9 |
Journal | Journal of Clinical Investigation |
Volume | 112 |
Issue number | 12 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Dec 2003 |
Externally published | Yes |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Medicine