Cancer Stem Cells: A Novel Perspective on Tumor Biology
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a subpopulation of cancer cells that possess stem cell-like properties, including self-renewal, differentiation, and tumor-initiating capacity. Unlike differentiated cancer cells, CSCs are resistant to conventional therapies and contribute to tumor recurrence and metastasis. Their discovery has challenged the traditional view of cancer as a homogeneous population of cells and has led to a paradigm shift in our understanding of tumor biology.
Targeting CSCs offers a promising therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment. However, the development of effective CSC-targeting therapies faces significant challenges. Further research is needed to identify specific markers for CSCs, understand their molecular mechanisms, and develop novel therapeutic approaches that selectively eliminate CSCs while sparing normal stem cells.
