Prostate-Derived ETS Factor Regulates Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition through Both SLUG-Dependent and Independent Mechanisms.

The 5-year survival rate is very low when breast cancer becomes metastatic. The metastatic process is governed by a network of molecules of which SLUG is known to play a major role as a regulator of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Prostate-derived ETS factor (PDEF) has been proposed as a tumor suppressor, possibly through inhibition of invasion and metastasis; therefore, understanding the mechanism of PDEF regulation may help to better understand its role in breast cancer progression.