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Stem Cells in Breast Cancer

How do scientists identify breast cancer stem cells?

All cells have a unique pattern of proteins, like a fingerprint, on their surface membranes. All breast cancer stem cells have a surface protein marker called CD44, along with very low levels or no levels of two markers called CD24 and lin. Using specialized equipment and techniques, scientists can separate cells with this combination of protein markers from millions of other cells in a tumor sample. More recently U-M scientists have identified a protein called ALDH-1, which is expressed in the most aggressive cancer stem cells and can be detected in biopsies of patients' cancers.

What causes breast cancer?

Scientists know that women who inherit mutations in certain genes have a much higher risk of developing breast cancer. Mutations in genes called BRCA1 and BRCA2, are involved in many hereditary breast cancers, while HER-2 and PTEN are commonly altered in other aggressive breast cancers. Researchers have shown that these genes are involved in DNA repair and tumor suppression. U-M scientists have discovered that these genes also regulate self-renewal of breast cancer stem cells. Mutations in these genes allow stem cells to develop abnormally and increase the risk of cancer.

Non-genetic factors -- including age, radiation exposure, menstrual history and number of pregnancies -- also are associated with increased risk. But regardless of the triggering factor, we believe that all types of breast cancer originate in stem cells or cells called progenitors, which come from these stem cells in the breast.

Do breast cancer stem cells cause metastasis?

There are many factors that trigger metastasis in cancer and scientists don't yet understand how they all work. But we do know that stem cells are involved in the process. Recent research by U-M Cancer Center scientists found that cells from tumors with a higher percentage of cancer stem cells were more likely to break away and spread.

Continue reading about stem cells in breast cancer:    1     2     3    4

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This document is not intended to take the place of the care and attention of your personal physician or other professional medical services. Our aim is to promote active participation in your care and treatment by providing information and education. Questions about individual health concerns or specific treatment options should be discussed with your physician.

This information is part of the U-M Health System. The information presented is not a tool for self diagnosis or a substitute for professional care. © 2008 The Regents of the University of Michigan

Learn more:
In 2003, U-M Cancer Center scientists discovered the fingerprint for breast cancer stem cells. Read the press release.

Stem cell research at the University of Michigan
Stem Cells - Explained and Explored

Other stem cell resources
National Institutes of Health Web site on stem cells

International Society for Stem Cell Research

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University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center
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This site is part of the U-M Health System. The information presented is not a tool for self diagnosis or a substitute for professional care. © 2008 U-M Comprehensive Cancer Center