Cancer stem cells as functional biomarkers.

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Cancer Biology
• Translational Research

Background:

• Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs) are defined by self-renewal and tumor-initiating capabilities.
• CSCs contribute to cancer metastasis, therapeutic resistance, and tumor recurrence.
• The CSC theory explains relapse even after complete surgical resection or chemotherapy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of Cancer Stem Cells in cancer progression and treatment resistance.
• To explore the association between CSC-related biomarkers and clinical outcomes.
• To highlight the need for diagnostic tools for early detection of relapse and metastasis.

Main Methods:

• Review of translational studies on CSC characteristics and biomarkers.
• Analysis of CSC mechanisms contributing to chemoresistance and survival.
• Discussion of CSC niche-mediated dormancy and reactivation.

Main Results:

• CSCs exhibit active drug extrusion, increased chemoresistance, and survival pathways.
• CSCs can remain dormant in protective niches, leading to late disease recurrence.
• Specific biomarkers for CSCs have been identified in various solid tumors.

Conclusions:

• CSCs are key drivers of cancer recurrence and metastasis.
• Targeting CSCs and developing CSC-specific biomarkers are critical for effective cancer therapy.
• Advanced diagnostic instruments are needed for post-treatment patient follow-up to detect early relapse.