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Targeting CSCs within the tumor microenvironment for cancer therapy: a potential role of mesenchymal stem cells

Bin Bao1, Aamir Ahmad, Yiwei Li

  • 1Wayne State University, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Department of Pathology, Detroit, MI, USA.

Expert Opinion on Therapeutic Targets
|August 11, 2012
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Mesenchymal stem cells can reprogram into cancer stem cells (CSCs). Targeting CSCs, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), inflammation, and hypoxia with agents like CDF shows promise for cancer treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Cancer Biology
  • Stem Cell Research
  • Molecular Oncology

Background:

  • Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) exhibit proliferative and differentiation capabilities.
  • MSCs can reprogram into cancer stem cells (CSCs) due to microenvironmental changes, contributing to tumorigenesis.
  • CSCs are implicated in cancer cell migration, invasion, metastasis, and treatment resistance.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the relationship between CSCs, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), inflammation, and hypoxia.
  • To investigate novel therapeutic strategies targeting CSCs for cancer treatment.
  • To evaluate the potential of curcumin analog CDF as an anti-tumor agent.

Main Methods:

  • Review of emerging evidence on MSC reprogramming and CSC development.
  • Analysis of the inter-relationship between CSCs, EMT, inflammation, and hypoxia.
  • Assessment of CDF's effects on CSC characteristics and tumor growth in vivo.

Main Results:

  • CSCs are linked to EMT, inflammation, and hypoxia, influencing cancer progression.
  • Targeting CSC signatures alongside EMT, inflammation, and hypoxia offers a therapeutic strategy.
  • CDF demonstrated attenuation of CSC characteristics and inhibition of human tumor growth.

Conclusions:

  • Targeting CSCs, EMT, inflammation, and hypoxia is a promising therapeutic approach.
  • CDF shows potential as an anti-tumor agent by inhibiting CSC characteristics and tumor progression.
  • Further research into CDF's mechanisms and therapeutic applications is warranted.

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