Cancer stem cells targeted therapy: A changing concept in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Stem Cell Biology
• Head and Neck Cancer Research

Background:

• Cancer stem cells (CSCs) possess self-renewal and multilineage potential, revolutionizing cancer treatment concepts.
• CSCs are implicated in cancer initiation, progression, relapse, and resistance to conventional therapies.
• Understanding stem cell (SC) properties and localization in cancer enables targeted therapeutic strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of CSCs in the development and relapse of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).
• To discuss surface markers for CSC identification in HNSCC.
• To explore SC-targeted therapy options for HNSCC, including advantages, challenges, and future research directions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on CSCs in HNSCC.
• Analysis of studies identifying CSC surface markers.
• Evaluation of current and emerging SC-targeted therapeutic approaches for HNSCC.

Main Results:

• CSCs play a significant role in HNSCC initiation, progression, and recurrence.
• Specific surface markers aid in the identification and isolation of HNSCC CSCs.
• SC-targeted therapies offer potential for improved HNSCC treatment outcomes, despite existing challenges.

Conclusions:

• Targeting CSCs is a promising strategy for managing HNSCC and reducing patient mortality.
• Further research into CSC biology and targeted therapies is crucial for advancing HNSCC treatment.
• Addressing the challenges of SC-targeted therapy will be key to its successful clinical application in HNSCC.