Brain Cancer Stem Cells as Targets of Novel Therapies

Abstract:: The cancer stem cell hypothesis posits that tumors are heterogeneous in their cell composition and contain a population of neoplastic cells that display sustained self-renewal, proliferative potential, and the capacity for tumor propagation. The significance of cancer stem cells in clinical practice remains undefined but laboratory studies have identified specific cancer stem cell signaling pathways and niches that may offer new therapeutic avenues. Characterizing cancer stem cells may also inform improved brain tumor prognosis and imaging.

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