Regulation of Cancer Stem Cells By the Tumor Microenvironment

Regulation of cancer stem cells by the tumor microenvironment

Joseph Wokpetah and Esther W. Gomez

Departments of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA

Tumors are composed of a heterogeneous population of cells surrounded by a dynamic microenvironment.  A subpopulation of cells within tumors, termed cancer stem cells (CSCs), is believed to drive tumor growth and recurrence.  CSCs have been implicated in the progression of a variety of cancers as their self-renewal potential is thought to be important for colonization of secondary organ sites.  Likewise, CSCs exhibit increased resistance to chemotherapeutics and ionizing radiation; thus, current cancer therapies may fail due to survival of CSCs that can then regenerate new tumors.  Here, we sought to understand how properties of the tumor microenvironment regulate CSC qualities.  We find that the rigidity of the microenvironment is a critical determinant of CSC phenotype.  Results from these studies may suggest therapeutic approaches for reducing the population of CSCs within tumors and for improving the efficacy of cancer treatments.