Abstract Title:

The niche of hepatic cancer stem cell and cancer recurrence.

Abstract Source:

Med Hypotheses. 2013 Feb 16. Epub 2013 Feb 16. PMID: 23419668

Abstract Author(s):

Han-Hua Dong, Shuai Xiang, Hui-Fang Liang, Chang-Hai Li, Zhi-Wei Zhang, Xiao-Ping Chen

Article Affiliation:

Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.

Abstract:

Currently, surgical resection is one of only a few options for treating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Unfortunately, postoperative tumor recurrence remains almost inevitable despite additional radiation or chemotherapy treatment following radical resection. Clinical observations and a growing body of experimental evidence have led to speculation that there is a population of persistent hepatic cancer stem cells (HCSCs), which are difficult to completely remove surgically. HCSCs are most often in a quiescent state and thought to reside in a specific microenvironment known as a niche that provides the cues necessary for HCSCs to maintain a balance of self-renewal and differentiation. Residual HCSCs following surgery may alter their fate by invading into the blood circulation. Furthermore, it remains to be determined if hepatectomy render the postoperative niche more favorable for the survival and growth of HCSCs, and therefore the recurrence of HCC. A better understanding of the mechanisms for HCSCs self-renewal, invasion and recurrence may provide new insights into curative strategies for treating HCC.

Study Type : Review

Print Options


Key Research Topics

This website is for information purposes only. By providing the information contained herein we are not diagnosing, treating, curing, mitigating, or preventing any type of disease or medical condition. Before beginning any type of natural, integrative or conventional treatment regimen, it is advisable to seek the advice of a licensed healthcare professional.

© Copyright 2008-2024 GreenMedInfo.com, Journal Articles copyright of original owners, MeSH copyright NLM.