Epithelial-mesenchymal transition

Okay kiddo, so let's say that the cells in our body are like workers building a big building. There are different types of workers with different jobs, and they work together to make sure the building is strong and stable.

Now, one type of worker is called the epithelial worker. These workers are like the ones who build the walls and floors of the building - they form a strong, protective layer on the surface of our organs and skin.

But sometimes, these workers need to change their job a bit. They need to become more flexible and move around to different parts of the building. That's when they go through something called epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT).

Think of it like the workers taking off their hard hats and putting on some sneakers. They become more free and able to move around to new spaces in the building.

In EMT, the epithelial workers change into a different type of worker called the mesenchymal worker. Mesenchymal workers are like the ones who make the supports and scaffolding of the building - they are flexible and can move around easily.

So, when the epithelial workers go through EMT and become mesenchymal workers, they can help the building grow and change in new ways. This can happen during things like development, wound healing, and even cancer.

But don't worry, our body knows when and where EMT needs to happen, and these workers always know their job!