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Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs), Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCs) and Their Interplay with Cancer Associated Fibroblasts

Beatrice Aramini1, Valentina Masciale2, Chiara Arienti3

  • 1Division of Thoracic Surgery, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine-DIMES of the Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, G.B. Morgagni-L. Pierantoni Hospital, 47121 Forlì, Italy.

Cancers
|May 28, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Identifying new cancer biomarkers is crucial for targeting cancer stem cells (CSCs) and circulating tumor cells (CTCs). Understanding their interactions with the tumor microenvironment, including cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), can lead to tailored cancer therapies.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Cancer Research

Background:

  • Cancer stem cells (CSCs) possess self-renewal and tumorigenicity, contributing to tumor growth.
  • Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) disseminate from primary tumors, posing a metastatic threat.
  • The tumor microenvironment, including cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), significantly influences cancer progression and treatment resistance.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the importance of discovering novel biomarkers for CSCs and CTCs.
  • To elucidate the molecular connections within the tumor microenvironment.
  • To explore new therapeutic strategies targeting these cellular components.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review on CSCs, CTCs, and CAFs.
  • Analysis of molecular interactions and signaling pathways.
  • Identification of potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

Main Results:

  • CSCs and CTCs represent critical targets in cancer therapy.
  • CAFs play a multifaceted role in supporting tumor growth and modulating the immune response.
  • Interactions between cancer cells and the tumor microenvironment are key to understanding cancer progression.

Conclusions:

  • Defining new biomarkers for CSCs and CTCs is essential for advancing cancer treatment.
  • Understanding the complex network of the tumor microenvironment, including CAFs, offers new therapeutic avenues.
  • Targeting CSCs, CTCs, and their interactions may lead to more personalized and effective cancer therapies.
Keywords:
cancercancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs)cancer stem cells (CSCs)circulating tumor cells (CTCs)

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