Abstract
Objecive
To summarize current knowledge on induction of Epithelial-Mesenchymal-Transition (EMT) during viral oncogenesis.
Methods
Publications describing “induction of EMT in viral induced cancers†were retrieved from Pubmed database and managed in the End Note software (version XIII) for further analysis.
Results
Some oncogenic viruses like EBV, HPV, HBV, HCV, and adenoviruses have recently been shown to switch on the EMT-programming prior to tumor invasion. Various proteins involved in viral induced EMT include TGFß, NFkB, Smad3, Cadherins, Catenins and Hbx, amongst others.
Conclusion
Epithelial-Mesenchymal-Transition has been involved as metastatic tool by oncogenic viruses. We recommend further research on the topic to fill the existing gaps. (Rawal Med J 2011;36:317-321).
Key words: Oncogenic viruses, EMT, tumor invasion, metastasis
