Scatter factor and the c-Met receptor: A paradigm for mesenchymal/epithelial interaction

Abstract

Epithelia and mesenchyme interact during various physiologic and pathologic processes. Scatter factor is a mesenchyme-derived cytokine that stimulates motility, proliferation, and morphogenesis of epithelia. Recent studies suggest that scatter factor and its receptor (c-met) mediate mesenchyme/epithelia signalling and even interconversion. In this mini- review, we will discuss how scatter factor and c-met may mediate interactions between mesenchyme and epithelia during embryogenesis, organ repair, and neoplasia.