Stem cells in carcinogenesis of the prostate

Shi Ming Tu, Sue Hwa Lin

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

A key to solving the beginning of cancer is to elucidate its cell of origin. Hence, an unspoken appeal of the stem-cell theory of cancers is its focus on the cellular aspects of cancer. Many biologic phenomena vital for cancer cells are shared by stem cells. Both stem-cell and cancer cell activities are tightly regulated by their respective microenvironments or niches. Therefore, it is not coincidental that epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and epithelial-stromal interactions, which are critical for organogenesis, also play an important role in carcinogenesis. We propose that the theory of a stem-cell origin of cancers that encompasses all aspects of cancer, including heterogeneity, metastasis, drug resistance, etc., may be our long-sought unified theory of cancer.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationProstate Cancer
Subtitle of host publicationA Comprehensive Perspective
PublisherSpringer-Verlag London Ltd
Pages73-79
Number of pages7
ISBN (Electronic)9781447128649
ISBN (Print)144712863X, 9781447128632
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 1 2013

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Medicine

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