Stem cells as therapeutic targets in colorectal cancer

Abstract

Colorectal cancer continues to represent a significant burden on public health as the second highest cause of cancer mortality, when men and women are combined, in the US. About 50% of patients either present with late-stage metastatic disease, or develop metastatic recurrences, and ultimately die. In turn, this mortality largely reflects cancer stem cells, tumor-initiating cells that are responsible for cancer progression, drug resistance, recurrence and metastasis. This review summarizes the unique properties of colorectal cancer stem cells, and the emerging strategies by which they can be selectively targeted as a therapeutic approach to eradicating this disease.

Document Details

Document Type
Pub Defense Publication
Publication Date
Mar 01, 2021
Source ID
10.2217/pme-2020-0099

Entities

People

  • Adam E. Snook
  • Alicja Zalewski
  • Scott A. Waldman

Organizations

  • National Cancer Institute
  • National Institute of General Medical Sciences
  • Thomas Jefferson University
  • Thomas Jefferson University Hospital
  • United States Department of Defense

Tags

Fields of Study

  • Medicine

Readers

  • Oncology
  • Oncology (Cancer Research).
  • Theoretical Analysis.

Technology Areas

  • Biotechnology