Cancer stem cells (CSCs) also known as tumor stem cells (TSCs), are pivotal in cancer development and progression. They can be identified through specific markers and surface proteins (e.g., CD44, CD133) that differ from those on non-CSC tumor cells. As well high CSC levels often correlate with poor prognosis, aggressive disease, and resistance to conventional therapies. CSCs are more resistant to standard treatments like chemotherapy and radiation, leading to relapse and metastasis. Therapies targeting CSC-specific pathways and markers are developing to improve treatment efficacy and prevent recurrence. Understanding their role and mechanisms is essential for developing more effective and targeted cancer treatments. While significant progress has been made in developing therapies to target tumor stem cells, much work remains. Tracking CSC markers can help monitor residual disease and predict the likelihood of recurrence, allowing for more tailored treatment approaches. Research into CSC biomarkers continues to evolve, with ongoing studies aiming to refine their use for better diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of various cancers. Overall, using CSCs as biomarkers offers a promising avenue for more personalized and effective cancer treatment strategies.
Joshi et al. (Thu,) studied this question.
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