Cancer stem cells and niches: challenges in immunotherapy resistance
Tongji Hospital · Huazhong University of Science and Technology
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are central to tumor progression, metastasis, immune evasion, and therapeutic resistance. Characterized by remarkable self-renewal and adaptability, CSCs can transition dynamically between stem-like and differentiated states in response to external stimuli, a process termed "CSC plasticity." This adaptability underpins their resilience to therapies, including immune checkpoint inhibitors and adoptive cell therapies (ACT). Beyond intrinsic properties, CSCs reside in a specialized microenvironment-the CSC niche-which provides immune-privileged protection, sustains their stemness, and fosters immune suppression. This review highlights the critical role of CSCs and their niche in driving…
Citation impact
- FWCI
- 50.26
- Percentile
- 100%
- References
- 234
Authors
10- YPYonglong PanCorresponding
Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology
- CYChaoyi Yuan
Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology
- CZChenglong Zeng
Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology
- CSChaoyang Sun
Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology
- LXLimin Xia
Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Tongji Hospital
Topics & keywords
- Biology
- Cancer
- Immunotherapy
- Resistance (ecology)
- Stem cell
- Cancer research
- Cancer stem cell
- Niche