TMPRSS2/ERG Promotes Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition through the ZEB1/ZEB2 Axis in a Prostate Cancer Model
2011

TMPRSS2/ERG and Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition in Prostate Cancer

publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Leshem Orit, Madar Shalom, Kogan-Sakin Ira, Kamer Iris, Goldstein Ido, Brosh Ran, Cohen Yehudit, Jacob-Hirsch Jasmine, Ehrlich Marcelo, Ben-Sasson Shmuel, Goldfinger Naomi, Loewenthal Ron, Gazit Ephraim, Rotter Varda, Berger Raanan

Primary Institution: Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Ramat Gan, Israel

Hypothesis

How does TMPRSS2/ERG contribute to epithelial to mesenchymal transition in prostate cancer?

Conclusion

TMPRSS2/ERG promotes epithelial to mesenchymal transition through the ZEB1/ZEB2 axis, leading to more aggressive prostate cancer.

Supporting Evidence

  • TMPRSS2/ERG over-expressing cells showed enhanced migratory and invasive capabilities.
  • TMPRSS2/ERG expression was associated with down-regulation of the epithelial marker CDH1.
  • ZEB1 and ZEB2 were significantly up-regulated in TMPRSS2/ERG-expressing cells.

Takeaway

This study shows that a gene fusion in prostate cancer helps the cancer cells change shape and become more invasive, which can make the cancer worse.

Methodology

The study used immortalized prostate epithelial cells and performed experiments to analyze gene expression and tumor formation in vivo.

Limitations

The study primarily focuses on in vitro and in vivo models, which may not fully replicate human prostate cancer conditions.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0021650

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