How Does MET Interact with the Tumor Microenvironment?
The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a crucial role in regulating MET. Factors secreted by stromal cells, immune cells, and the extracellular matrix can influence the balance between EMT and MET. For example, fibroblasts in the TME can secrete HGF, which binds to the MET receptor on cancer cells, promoting MET and aiding in the colonization of metastatic sites.