**Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and its Regulation in Tumor Metastasis**

Tao Sun, Yuan Qin and Wei-long Zhong

Additional information is available at the end of the chapter

http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/64497

#### **Abstract**

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays a key role in cancer metastasis. This process is a complex, multi-functional, and tightly regulated developmental program. EMT has been extensively investigated, but the molecular regulation of its signaling pathway is highly complex. In this study, the different elements of EMT cascades that could be targeted were determined. Difficulties in translating the preclinical findings in routine clinic were also distinguished. Future research will provide insights into the activation and regulation of various EMT programs in different tumor types and at distinct stages of tumor development. These results will likely facilitate the develop‐ ment of early detection strategies and improve the therapeutic targeting of malignant solid tumors.

**Keywords:** tumor, tumor metastasis, EMT, regulation of EMT
