Comprehensive Review on the Effect of Stem Cells in Cancer Progression

Adult stem cells play a pivotal role in the regeneration and revival of tissues that have been affected by aging or injury. Emerging studies have provided strong evidence to support the idea that cells with properties resembling stem cells play a crucial role in the development and progression of various types of human cancers (Wang and Dick, Trends Cell Biol 15:494–501, 2005; Reya et al., Nature 414:105–11, 2001). This review will specifically focus on the interplay between cancer stem cells and various forms of cancer.

Recent Findings

The notion of cancer stem cells (CSCs) was initially explored in depth within the context of acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) and has since garnered significant interest in the field of cancer research (Nguyen et al., Nat Rev Cancer 12:133–43, 2012). Cancer stem cells share many similarities with stem cells in various aspects. CSCs are a subset of cells found within tumors that possess the ability to self-renew, differentiate, and induce tumor formation when introduced into an animal model. A specific group of cell surface markers, such as CD133, CD44, CD166, EpCAM, CD34, CD90, and CD24, are frequently employed in the identification and enrichment of CSCs (Zhou et al., Biochem Pharmacol 209:115441, 2023; Levin et al., Gastroenterology 139:2072–2082.e5, 2010; Shaikh et al., Cancer Biomarkers 16:301–7, 2016; Gao et al., Stem Cell Rev Rep 2023).

There is substantial evidence indicating that CSCs exhibit resistance to various standard treatments as well as playing an essential part in tumor recurrence along with the initiation of cancer metastasis. CSCs are also engaged in intercellular communication with various constituents within the tumor microenvironment (TME), thereby promoting the advancement of the tumor. The recent progress in the field of CSCs has generated hope regarding the potential for enhanced efficacy in future cancer treatments.