Purpose of Review Lung cancer is the leading cause of
cancer-related mortality worldwide. The five-year survival
rate is very low in lung cancer patients due to diagnosis at late
stages, tumor recurrence, and drug resistance. Recent studies
suggest that cancer cells with self-renewal capacity contribute
to tumor growth. Identification of reliable markers for cancer
stem cell populations and mechanistic understanding of associated signaling pathways and regulatory factors are critically
needed to improve long-term survival.
Recent Findings Several studies have established the expression of stem cell markers (aldehyde dehydrogenase ALDH1,
glycoprotein CD44 and CD133) in lung cancer cell lines and
clinical samples. Association of these stem cell markers with
lung cancer and the signaling pathways (Wnt, Notch, and
Hedgehog) maintaining stem cell characteristics are briefly
reviewed here. Interestingly, epigenetic mechanisms and regulatory roles of transcription factors such as Sox2 and Runx
family members have been shown to contribute to stem cell
properties and lung cancer.
Summary Understanding mechanisms regulating Bstemness^
and differentiation of lung epithelial cells will lead to novel
therapies for successful targeting of cancer stem cells.

EB00000002686K

Available

• Lung Cancer Stem Cells: Insights into Characterization and Regulatory Mechanisms