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CD133 as a target for colon cancer
Veronica Catalano1, Simone Di Franco, Flora Iovino
1University of Palermo, Department of Surgical and Oncological Sciences, Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Pathophysiology, Via Liborio Giuffrè, 5. 90127, Palermo, Italy.
Introduction:
Recent evidence based on cancer stem cell (CSC) models, is boosting the progress of translational research and providing relevant clinical implications in many tumour types, including colorectal cancer. The current failure of standard therapies is attributed to a small fraction of the primary cell population with stem-like characteristics, such as self-renewal and differentiation. Identification of CSCs is based on two different criteria of selection: stemness-selective conditions and direct isolation based on putative stem cell markers expression. CD133, a transmembrane glycoprotein, was associated with tumor-initiating cells derived from several histological variants of tumors, including colon.
Areas Covered:
In this review the current understandings about CD133 as putative marker of tumour-initiating cells in colorectal cancer (CRC) is described. The focus of the discussion is on the need for additional markers to better identify the cell population able to recapitulate the parental tumor in immunocompromised mice.
Expert Opinion:
Identification and characterization of CSCs represents a relevant issue to define innovative therapeutic approaches, overcoming the emergence of cancer cell clones capable of evading standard therapy.
Insights
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) drive colorectal cancer (CRC) treatment failure. Identifying CSCs using markers like CD133 is crucial for developing new therapies to overcome treatment resistance.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cancer Stem Cell Research
Background:
- Cancer stem cell (CSC) models are advancing translational research and clinical implications in various cancers, including colorectal cancer (CRC).
- Standard therapies often fail due to a small population of cells with stem-like properties (self-renewal, differentiation).
- CSCs are identified by stemness-selective conditions or by markers like CD133, a transmembrane glycoprotein found in tumor-initiating cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current understanding of CD133 as a marker for tumor-initiating cells in colorectal cancer (CRC).
- To highlight the necessity for additional markers to accurately identify the cell population capable of tumor recapitulation in immunocompromised mice.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on CD133 as a colorectal cancer stem cell marker.
- Discussion on the limitations of current identification methods and the need for complementary markers.
Main Results:
- CD133 is a putative marker associated with tumor-initiating cells in colorectal cancer.
- Current markers may not be sufficient for precise identification of the CSC population.
Conclusions:
- Accurate identification and characterization of CSCs are essential for developing innovative therapeutic strategies.
- Overcoming therapeutic evasion by cancer cell clones requires a deeper understanding of CSC biology.
