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Updated: May 4, 2026
Isolation and Functional Assessment of Human Breast Cancer Stem Cells from Cell and Tissue Samples
Published on: October 2, 2020
Genistein decreases the breast cancer stem-like cell population through Hedgehog pathway
Introduction:
The existence of breast cancer stem-like cells (BCSCs) has profound implications for cancer prevention. Genistein, a predominant isoflavone found in soy products, has multiple robust anti-tumor effects in various cancers, especially in the breast and prostate cancer. In this study, we aimed to evaluate genistein inhibition of BCSCs and its potential mechanism by culturing MCF-7 breast cancer cells and implanting these cells into nude mice.
Methods:
Cell counting, colony formation and cell apoptosis analysis were used to evaluate the effect of genistein on breast cancer cells’ growth, proliferation and apoptosis. We then used mammosphere formation assay and CD44CD24 staining to evaluate the effect of genistein on BCSCs in vitro. A nude mice xenograft model was employed to determine whether genistein could target BCSCs in vivo, as assessed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunohistochemical staining. The potential mechanism was investigated utilizing real-time PCR, western blotting analysis and immunohistochemical staining.
Results:
Genistein inhibited the MCF-7 breast cancer cells’ growth and proliferation and promoted apoptosis. Both in vitro and in vivo genistein decreased breast cancer stem cells, and inhibited breast cancer stem-like cells through down-regulation of the Hedgehog-Gli1 Signaling Pathway.
Conclusions:
We demonstrated for the first time that genistein inhibits BCSCs by down-regulating Hedgehog-Gli1 signaling pathway. These findings provide support and rationale for investigating the clinical application of genistein in treating breast cancer, and specifically by targeting breast cancer stem cells.
Insights
Genistein, a soy isoflavone, effectively inhibits breast cancer stem-like cells (BCSCs) by down-regulating the Hedgehog-Gli1 pathway. This research supports genistein
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Breast cancer stem-like cells (BCSCs) are crucial for cancer development and recurrence.
- Genistein, a soy isoflavone, exhibits anti-tumor properties in various cancers, including breast cancer.
- Understanding genistein's effect on BCSCs is vital for novel cancer prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the inhibitory effects of genistein on breast cancer stem-like cells (BCSCs).
- To elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms by which genistein affects BCSCs.
- To evaluate genistein's potential in targeting BCSCs both in vitro and in vivo.
Main Methods:
- Cell proliferation, apoptosis, and colony formation assays were performed.
- Mammosphere formation assays and CD44/CD24 staining assessed BCSC activity in vitro.
- A nude mouse xenograft model, real-time PCR, and immunohistochemistry evaluated in vivo effects and mechanisms.
Main Results:
- Genistein suppressed MCF-7 breast cancer cell growth and proliferation while enhancing apoptosis.
- Genistein significantly reduced the population of breast cancer stem cells both in vitro and in vivo.
- The Hedgehog-Gli1 signaling pathway was identified as a key target, with genistein causing its down-regulation.
Conclusions:
- Genistein inhibits breast cancer stem-like cells (BCSCs) by down-regulating the Hedgehog-Gli1 signaling pathway.
- This study provides the first evidence of genistein targeting BCSCs via this pathway.
- Findings support the clinical investigation of genistein for breast cancer treatment, specifically targeting BCSCs.
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