Cancer Stem Cells: The Root of Tumor Growth
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a distinct population of cells within a tumor that possess self-renewal and differentiation capabilities, akin to stem cells in healthy tissues. These cells have been implicated as the driving force behind tumor initiation, progression, and resistance to therapy. Understanding the biology of CSCs is crucial for developing effective cancer treatments that target this elusive population.
Unveiling the Enigma of Cancer Stem Cells
CSCs are characterized by their ability to self-renew and give rise to heterogeneous tumor cells, which contribute to tumor growth and metastasis. They exhibit stem cell-like properties, such as the expression of stem cell markers and the ability to form tumor spheres in culture. Unlike most tumor cells, CSCs are relatively quiescent and resistant to conventional therapies, making them a formidable challenge in cancer treatment. Research is ongoing to unravel the molecular mechanisms that govern CSC self-renewal, differentiation, and resistance, with the aim of identifying vulnerabilities that can be exploited for therapeutic intervention.
