Stem cell quiescence and its clinical relevance

Area of Science:

• Stem cell biology
• Cancer biology
• Cellular quiescence mechanisms

Background:

• Quiescent state is crucial for stem cell (SC) self-renewal and survival.
• Quiescent cancer stem cells (CSCs) contribute to therapeutic resistance in various cancers.
• Understanding SC quiescence is vital for regenerative medicine and cancer therapy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review intrinsic mechanisms regulating adult SC quiescence.
• To summarize extrinsic factors influencing SC quiescence.
• To discuss CSC quiescence characteristics, regulation, and therapeutic targeting.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of intrinsic mechanisms (cell cycle, signaling pathways, epigenetics, metabolism, transcriptional regulation).
• Literature review of extrinsic factors (microenvironment cells, extracellular factors, immune response, inflammation).
• Detailed discussion on CSC quiescence and therapeutic strategies.

Main Results:

• Adult SC quiescence is regulated by intrinsic factors like cell cycle control, Notch signaling, epigenetics, metabolism, and transcriptional regulation.
• Extrinsic factors including microenvironment cells, extracellular signals, and immune responses also modulate SC quiescence.
• Quiescent CSCs exhibit unique characteristics and regulatory mechanisms contributing to treatment failure.

Conclusions:

• SC quiescence is a complex process involving intricate intrinsic and extrinsic regulatory networks.
• Targeting CSC quiescence presents a promising yet challenging therapeutic avenue.
• Further research into CSC quiescence mechanisms is essential for developing effective cancer treatments.