Role of cancer stem cell ecosystem on breast cancer metastasis and related mouse models

Breast cancer metastasis is responsible for most breast cancer-related deaths and is influenced by many factors within the tumor ecosystem, including tumor cells and microenvironment. Breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) constitute a small population of cancer cells with unique characteristics, including their capacity for self-renewal and differentiation. Studies have shown that BCSCs not only drive tumorigenesis but also play a crucial role in promoting metastasis in breast cancer. The tumor microenvironment (TME), composed of stromal cells, immune cells, blood vessel cells, fibroblasts, and microbes in proximity to cancer cells, is increasingly recognized for its crosstalk with BCSCs and role in BCSC survival, growth, and dissemination, thereby influencing metastatic ability. Hence, a thorough understanding of BCSCs and the TME is critical for unraveling the mechanisms underlying breast cancer metastasis. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on the roles of BCSCs and the TME in breast cancer metastasis, as well as the underlying regulatory mechanisms. Furthermore, we provide an overview of relevant mouse models used to study breast cancer metastasis, as well as treatment strategies and clinical trials addressing BCSC-TME interactions during metastasis. Overall, this study provides valuable insights for the development of effective therapeutic strategies to reduce breast cancer metastasis.