Pancreatic cancer stem cells identified

Stem cells - the good and the bad

Embryonic stem cells are 'master' cells that can not only replicate indefinitely, but can also give rise to any of the 200 or so cell types that form our tissues, organs and ultimately our bodies. Adult stem cells perform more limited work throughout a person's life. Stem cells in bone marrow, for example, provide a steady supply of vital blood cells such as the red blood cells that carry oxygen, the white blood cells that fight disease and the platelets that clot blood. In recent years, stem cells have been found in the liver, brain and other organs. Scientists believe these cells serve as reserve troops that help repair injuries, dividing into whatever type of tissue is needed. These are the 'good guys'.

The bad guys

A distinct cell population similar to adult stem cells has also been identified in some cancers. Cancer stem cells are the small number of cancer cells that replicate to drive tumour growth. Instead of creating new tissue to heal a wound, they create and replenish malignant tumours. Although few in number - they make up less than 1% of a tumour - cancer stem cells may be the driving force behind many tumours, playing a far more central and lethal role than the more numerous and ordinary cancer cells that surround them. Researchers believe current cancer treatments sometimes fail because they are not attacking the cancer stem cells. By identifying these, researchers can then develop drugs to target and kill these cells.

Cancer stem cells have been identified in several cancer types, including leukaemia, breast, brain and colon cancers. University of Michigan Cancer Center researchers, led by Dr. Diane Simeone, reported the discovery of the small number of cells in pancreatic cancer that are capable of fuelling the tumour's growth. The finding was the first identification of cancer stem cells in pancreatic tumours.

This research is still in the early stages, and doctors still have a lot of questions. But being able to target pancreatic cancer stem cells may provide an avenue for much more effective treatment.

Video: Dr Diane Simeone explains why pancreatic cancer stem cells are important