METHODS OF MODULATING EPITHELIAL-MESENCHYMAL TRANSITION AND MESENCHYMAL-EPITHELIAL TRANSITION IN CELLS AND AGENTS USEFUL FOR THE SAME

摘要

The present invention relates generally to the fields of treatment, proph ylaxis and diagnosis of cell-based and fibrotic conditions in animals includ ing mammals. More particularly, the present invention contemplates the use o f agents which modulate epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) processes an d mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET) processes and hence are useful in the treatment of a range of conditions including inhibiting metastasis of so lid tumors and the development of fibrosis, treating metastatic disease and in promoting wound healing. Diagnostic protocols to assess EMT and MET or it s stage of development also form part of the present invention. The EMT and MET modulating agents are also useful in regulating gene expression and, hen ce, represent useful therapeutic and research tools.