Differential Notch and TGFβ Signaling in Primary Colorectal Tumors and Their Corresponding Metastases

Abstract

Background: Loss of epithelial morphology and the acquisition of mesenchymal characteristics may contribute to metastasis formation during colorectal tumorigenesis. The Wnt, Notch and TGFβ signaling pathways control tissue homeostasis and tumor development in the gut. The relationship between the activity of these pathways and the expression of epithelial and mesenchymal markers was investigated in a series of primary colorectal tumors and their corresponding metastases.