TWIST1 and cancer: Because of EMT, melanocytic cells acquire the characteristics of their mesenchymal progenitor cells.46,49 Invasion is stimulated by increased activity of Wnt 5a and Notch pathways (increased expression of transcription factors Twist and Snail) and activation of PKC causing cytoskeletal changes that enhance cell motility.49,50 Twist, in particular, has an essential role in inhibiting E-CADH expression, inducing cell motility and contributing to metastasis by promoting EMT.51–53 In addition, E-CADH acts as an antiapoptotic factor enhancing cancer cell survival.54