Breast cancer stem cells

Abstract

Breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) constitute a subpopulation of tumor cells that express stem cell-associated markers and have a high capacity for tumor generation in vivo. Identification of BCSCs from tumor samples or breast cancer cell lines has been based mainly on CD44+/CD24−/low or ALDH+ phenotypes. BCSCs isolation has allowed the analysis of the molecular mechanisms involved in their origin, self-renewal, differentiation into tumor cells, resistance to radiation therapy and chemotherapy, and invasiveness and metastatic ability. Molecular genetic analysis using knockout animals and inducible transgenics have identified NF-κB, c-Jun, p21CIP1, and Forkhead-like-protein Dach1 in BCSC expansion and fate. Clinical analyses of BCSCs in breast tumors have found a correlation between the proportion of BCSCs and poor prognosis. Therefore, new therapies that specifically target BCSCs are an urgent need. We summarize recent evidence that partially explain the biological characteristics of BCSCs.

Expression of cancer stem cell markers is more frequent in anaplastic thyroid carcinoma compared to papillary thyroid carcinoma and is related to adverse clinical outcome

“…These proteins have been shown to be CSC markers in malignant tumours of locations including the lung, breast and brain 7 14. However, these markers cannot be regarded as CSCs in the thyroid because: (1) CD44 was diffusely positive even in benign FECs; (2) markers such as ALDH1, CD133 and SOX9 were more frequently positive in PTC than ATC; and (3) SOX2 and Oct4 were entirely negative in both ATC and PTC.…”

MicroRNA-200c delivered by solid lipid nanoparticles enhances the effect of paclitaxel on breast cancer stem cell

“…[2][3][4] Emerging evidence suggests that breast cancer stem cells (BCSC), which possess the properties of self-renewal and differentiation, may play critical roles. 5,6 Thus, the eradication of BCSC is an important goal to cure breast cancer. 7 One of the major obstacles toward treatment of BCSC is their resistance to standard chemotherapeutic drugs.…”

Forkhead Box Q1 Is a Novel Target of Breast Cancer Stem Cell Inhibition by Diallyl Trisulfide

“…Recent progress in our understanding of the biology of breast cancer highlights a critical role for breast cancer stem cells (bCSC) in tumor initiation and progression (21)(22)(23). Therefore, it is only logical to speculate that elimination of both bCSC and proliferating cells constituting the bulk of the tumor mass may be necessary for the treatment and/or prevention of breast cancer.…”