Promotion of tumor cell metastasis and vasculogenic mimicry by way of transcription coactivation by Bcl‐2 and Twist1: A study of hepatocellular carcinoma
Tao Sun, Bao‐cun Sun, Xiu‐lan Zhao, Nan Zhao, Xue‐yi Dong, Na Che, Zhi Yao, Yue‐mei Ma, Qiang Gu, Wen‐kang Zong, Zhi‐yong Liu – 11 July 2011 – The antiapoptotic protein Bcl‐2 plays multiple roles in apoptosis, immunity, and autophagy. Its expression in tumors correlates with tumor grade and malignancy. The recapitulation of the normal developmental process of epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) contributes to tumor cell plasticity. This process is also a characteristic of metastatic cells and vasculogenic mimicry.