Syöpäkantasolut

Syöpäkantasolut, also known as cancer stem cells, are a subpopulation of cells within a tumor that possess stem cell-like properties. These properties include the ability to self-renew and differentiate into the diverse cell types that constitute a tumor. This hierarchical organization within tumors, where a small number of cancer stem cells give rise to the bulk of the tumor mass, is analogous to the organization observed in normal tissues with adult stem cells.

The existence of cancer stem cells has significant implications for cancer treatment and research. It is hypothesized that these cells are responsible for tumor initiation, growth, and importantly, metastasis. Furthermore, their resistance to conventional therapies, such as chemotherapy and radiation, is thought to be a major reason for treatment failure and tumor recurrence. Cancer stem cells may possess distinct molecular pathways that confer survival advantages, making them more resilient to treatments that target rapidly dividing cells.

Research into cancer stem cells aims to identify specific markers that distinguish them from other tumor cells and to understand the mechanisms underlying their self-renewal and resistance. Developing therapies that specifically target and eliminate cancer stem cells is a promising strategy for achieving more effective and durable cancer cures. However, challenges remain in precisely identifying and isolating these cells across different cancer types and in developing therapies that are both effective against cancer stem cells and safe for normal tissues.