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Stem Cells in Pancreatic Cancer

Are pancreatic cancer stem cells the same as those found in other types of cancer?

Pancreatic cancer stem cells seem to work in the same way as cancer stem cells found in other types of cancer. Regardless of the organ in which they are found, cancer stem cells appear to be responsible for the propagation of cancer and for its spread to other organs in the body. But they may do this in different ways.

While many cancer stem cells have one or two protein surface markers in common, we have not identified a universal fingerprint for all cancer stem cells. Scientists still don't know if all cancer stem cells use the same signaling pathways to drive the development of cancer.

How will this research help patients with pancreatic cancer?

Since pancreatic cancer is resistant to chemotherapy and radiation, we need new treatments that can kill the small number of cancer stem cells within the tumor. Studying pancreatic cancer stem cells will help us identify targets for new drugs or therapies, which can then be tested in animals and eventually in human clinical trials.

Stem cells in pancreatic cancer:    1     2     3     4     5

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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:
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