Beating Breast Cancer: The Promise of Targeting Stem Cells

Breast cancer is still the top killer among women with cancer. One of the big reasons is cancer stem cells (CSCs). These are like the hidden leaders of cancer cells, making them tough to beat. Scientists are getting better at finding and separating these cells. They use tests like the mammosphere formation assay, surface marker checks, Side Population assay, and Aldehyde Dehydrogenase test. These CSCs have special signals inside them that make them grow and divide quickly. Scientists are looking at ways to block these signals. Some important ones are CD44/CD24, Nanog, and Oct4. Drugs that mess with these signals could be a big help. Another cool way to fight CSCs is with immunotherapy. This uses the body's own defense system to attack cancer. But CSCs are tricky and can resist these attacks. So, precision medicine is key. It helps doctors pick the right treatments for each patient. All these new ways to fight breast cancer are exciting. They show how we might beat this tough disease in the future.