Collectively, we define a new TGFβ1/SMAD/lnc-APUE/E-cadherin axis: TGFβ1 activates lnc-APUE to promote cancer metastasis through Alu element-driven STAU1-mediated CDH1 mRNA decay and subsequent E-cadherin downregulation. The gene discussed is TGFB1; the disease is cancer.