Title | Cellular and molecular mechanisms of plasticity in cancer. |
Publication Type | Journal Article |
Year of Publication | 2022 |
Authors | Torborg SR, Li Z, Chan JE, Tammela T |
Journal | Trends Cancer |
Date Published | 2022 May 23 |
ISSN | 2405-8025 |
Abstract | Cancer cells are plastic - they can assume a wide range of distinct phenotypes. Plasticity is integral to cancer initiation and progression, as well as to the emergence and maintenance of intratumoral heterogeneity. Furthermore, plastic cells can rapidly adapt to and evade therapy, which poses a challenge for effective cancer treatment. As such, targeting plasticity in cancer holds tremendous promise. Yet, the principles governing plasticity in cancer cells remain poorly understood. Here, we provide an overview of the fundamental molecular and cellular mechanisms that underlie plasticity in cancer and in other biological contexts, including development and regeneration. We propose a key role for high-plasticity cell states (HPCSs) as crucial nodes for cell state transitions and enablers of intra-tumoral heterogeneity. |
DOI | 10.1016/j.trecan.2022.04.007 |
Alternate Journal | Trends Cancer |
PubMed ID | 35618573 |
Submitted by bel2021 on June 21, 2022 - 5:01pm