In addition, the myxoid stroma that characterises Immature DR is associated with excessive deposition of extracellular matrix components, such as fibronectin,29 which are known to affect various pro-tumour functions, including EMT activation.45 Consequently, a likely mechanism for the adverse prognostic impact of non-Mature DR is that it reflects activated EMT, which promotes carcinoma progression through a variety of mechanisms, including endowing cells with migratory and invasive properties.46 Here, FN1 is linked to carcinoma.