ZEB1 and ameloblastoma: However, when TGF-β is present, ZEB1 levels increase, which causes a downregulation of E-cadherin (a protein that helps cells stick together), an upregulation of N-cadherin and vimentin (markers of mesenchymal cells), and a higher rate of the migration and invasion of ameloblastoma cells, which could potentially lead to malignant transformation [73].