FGF2 and cancer: Moreover, the expression of the IIIc isoform in various types of human cancer has been linked to epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) and increased invasiveness, metastatic potential and cancer stem cell self-renewal.9,10 Our studies have shown that Akt3, and secondarily Akt1, transduce signals that shift the alternative splicing of FGFR-2 toward the IIIc isoform, which is recognized by FGF-2.