The researchers compared genes that are activated in stem cells and specialized cells from a healthy intestine with the genes that are activated in tumor cells taken from patients. Results showed patients with colon cancer have a set of genes activated that is very similar to the set activated in stem cells. The more activated genes they have in common, the more likely it is that the patient’s cancer will spread and relapse, researchers concluded.
The results add to the hypothesis that cancer organizes itself hierarchically, in such a way that only “tumor stem cells” are able to initiate and propagate the cancer. The researchers suggested patients with colorectal cancer should undergo genetic tests of their intestinal epithelium in order to predict a higher risk of relapse.
Read the news release about the link between stem cells and colon cancer cells.
Read other coverage about colorectal cancer:
– Olympus Announces Support of Colorectal Cancer Prevention Act
– Government: Older Americans Not Receiving Recommended Preventive Services
– AGA: Increased Access Needed for Colorectal Cancer Screening
