This document discusses cancer stem cells (CSCs), which are rare cells in tumors that have the ability to self-renew and differentiate into the diverse cells that comprise the tumor. CSCs were first hypothesized in the 1870s and experiments in the 1950s-60s provided early evidence for their existence. The concept of CSCs was revived in the 2000s, with the definition that they can recapitulate tumor growth. CSCs are identified experimentally by markers and assays. They are thought to originate from somatic or adult stem/progenitor cells and have properties of self-renewal, differentiation, immortality. CSCs may cause metastases, therapy resistance and recurrence. Targeting CSCs may improve cancer treatment and CSCs may serve
This document discusses cancer stem cells (CSCs), which are rare cells in tumors that have the ability to self-renew and differentiate into the diverse cells that comprise the tumor. CSCs were first hypothesized in the 1870s and experiments in the 1950s-60s provided early evidence for their existence. The concept of CSCs was revived in the 2000s, with the definition that they can recapitulate tumor growth. CSCs are identified experimentally by markers and assays. They are thought to originate from somatic or adult stem/progenitor cells and have properties of self-renewal, differentiation, immortality. CSCs may cause metastases, therapy resistance and recurrence. Targeting CSCs may improve cancer treatment and CSCs may serve