Figure 2.

Common functions of transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) and miR-143 and -145 during tumor progression. In early stages low levels of both TGF-β and miR-143/145 are required to allow cell proliferation at the primary sites. During tumor progression, some cells undergo epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), which is induced by TGF-β that, among many other targets, triggers the up-regulation of miR-143 and -145 expression, which in turn, support tissue invasion and metastasis formation.