Author:
Deol Yadwinder S.,Granger Jill,Wicha Max S.
Abstract
OverviewThere is substantial evidence that many if not most tumors contain a subpopulation of cells that display stem cell properties. These “cancer stem cells” (CSCs) play an important role in tumor initiation and propagation. Furthermore, these cells may mediate resistance to cancer therapeutic agents and therefore play a fundamental role in cancer relapse. This highlights the importance of developing therapeutic approaches to target this cell population. In this chapter, we will review current thoughts on the role of tissue stem cells in carcinogenesis, the pathways that regulate these cells, and current progress in development of CSC targeting therapeutic agents. We will then review clinical implications of CSC models.