Differentiation pathways in carcinogenesis and in chemo- and radioresistance

Neoplasma. 2012;59(1):6-17. doi: 10.4149/neo_2012_002.

Abstract

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) share many features with embryonic stem cells (ESCs) such as the ability for self-renewal and differentiation. Signaling pathways that are involved in these processes are also involved in chemo- and radioresistance (e.g. Wnt, Notch and Hedgehog pathways). This review is focused on the influence of three important differentiation pathways on carcinogenesis and on chemo- and radioresistance in ESCs and CSCs.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Differentiation / physiology*
  • Cell Transformation, Neoplastic*
  • Drug Resistance, Neoplasm / physiology*
  • Embryonic Stem Cells / cytology
  • Embryonic Stem Cells / physiology
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
  • Hedgehog Proteins / physiology
  • Humans
  • Neoplasm Proteins / physiology
  • Neoplastic Stem Cells / cytology
  • Neoplastic Stem Cells / drug effects
  • Neoplastic Stem Cells / radiation effects
  • Pluripotent Stem Cells / cytology
  • Pluripotent Stem Cells / physiology
  • Radiation Tolerance / physiology*
  • Receptors, Notch / physiology
  • Wnt Proteins / physiology

Substances

  • Hedgehog Proteins
  • Neoplasm Proteins
  • Receptors, Notch
  • Wnt Proteins